
Hosted by Elijah Murray · EN

Lucas Lovell is the Director of Product at Paddle, a global payments platform helping SaaS founders optimize their pricing, payments, and go-to-market strategies. He has firsthand experience launching and scaling startups across multiple international markets.In this conversation, we explore:The merchant of record model and its impact on SaaS businessesLocalization strategies for pricing, payments, and expansionThe decision-making process for international expansionHow AI is shaping the future of payments and automationLucas shares his personal experiences from running a startup through COVID, the pitfalls of not localizing correctly, and his insights on the evolving global SaaS landscape.EPISODE LINKS:Lucas Lovell on Twitter:https://x.com/lucas_lovellLucas Lovell on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucaslovell/Paddle:https://www.paddle.com/TIMESTAMPS:00:00:00 Intro and Background00:01:12 Paddle00:01:44 The Merchant of Record Model00:05:38 Localization Strategies for SaaS00:07:31 Importance of Currency and Language Localization00:10:22 Local Payment Methods and Pricing Strategies00:14:13 Expanding Internationally00:18:54 Prioritizing Global Expansion for SaaS00:19:30 When Should SaaS Founders Consider Global Expansion?00:20:21 Challenges and Strategies in International Markets00:22:18 Case Study: Multilingual Customer Support Platform00:24:10 Emerging Trends in the Payment Space00:26:10 AI and the Future of Transactions00:31:04 Paddle, AI and Customer Value00:38:31 Advice for SaaS Founders00:39:26 ClosingCONNECT:Website:https://hoo.be/elijahmurrayYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@elijahmurrayTwitter:https://twitter.com/elijahmurrayInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/elijahmurrayLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahmurrayApple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-w-elijah-murraySpotify:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elijahmurrayRSS:https://anchor.fm/s/3e31c0c/podcast/rss

Dan Curran is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of Chapters.io, an AI-driven publishing platform that helps individuals turn their experiences into books. With a background in content creation, multiple business exits, and leadership in entrepreneurship organizations, Dan shares his insights on how AI is reshaping publishing, the challenges of maintaining editorial integrity, and why storytelling matters.In this conversation, we explored: The role of AI in modern publishing and book creation How human editors and AI can work together for better storytelling The importance of preserving life experiences and wisdom How to build a business without venture capitalEPISODE LINKS:Dan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/currandan/Chapters.io: https://www.chapters.io/TIMESTAMPS:00:00:00 Intro and background00:01:20 The Intersection of AI and Publishing00:02:30 Challenges and Innovations in Book Publishing00:04:05 The Process of Writing with Chapters00:05:49 Human-AI Collaboration in Storytelling00:11:09 Addressing AI Concerns and Ethical Considerations00:14:19 Lessons Learned from Building AI Applications00:19:10 Balancing Human and AI Elements in Writing00:22:34 Building with AI: Frameworks and Guidelines00:23:37 Tailoring Content for Different Audiences00:25:06 The Future of Content Creation00:26:32 Navigating the Rapid Changes in AI00:42:27 Entrepreneurial Insights and Advice00:45:39 ClosingCONNECT: Website:https://hoo.be/elijahmurray YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@elijahmurray Twitter:https://twitter.com/elijahmurray Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/elijahmurray LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahmurray/ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-w-elijah-murray/ Spotify:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elijahmurray RSS:https://anchor.fm/s/3e31c0c/podcast/rss

Anya Cheng is the Founder & CEO of Taelor, an AI-powered men's fashion rental startup focused on sustainability. She has a track record of launching and scaling digital commerce at companies like Meta, eBay, and Target, helping build Facebook and Instagram Shopping and drive new business expansion at McDonald's global delivery. In this conversation, we explore: The transition from big tech to startup life How AI and unique data give startups a competitive edge Challenges of being an immigrant entrepreneur The fast fashion dilemma and how Taelor is tackling it Writing as a tool for stress relief and legacy building EPISODE LINKS: Anya Cheng LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anyacheng Taelor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taelor/ Taelor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taelor.style/ Taelor Website: https://taelor.style/pages/membership TIMESTAMPS: 00:00:00 Intro and background 00:01:03 From Big Tech to Entrepreneurship 00:03:20 Networking and Building Relationships 00:05:38 Obstacles as an Immigrant in the US 00:13:56 Taelor: AI-Powered Menswear Rental 00:19:48 The Fast Fashion Conundrum 00:20:20 Challenges in the Rental Fashion Market 00:24:21 AI's Role in Fashion and Business 00:24:38 Founding and Growing Taelor 00:25:54 AI and Investment 00:27:10 Unique Data 00:36:03 Authoring Books and Giving Back 00:40:14 Closing CONNECT: Website: https://hoo.be/elijahmurray YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elijahmurray Twitter: https://twitter.com/elijahmurray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elijahmurray LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahmurray/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-w-elijah-murray/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elijahmurray RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/3e31c0c/podcast/rss

Aytekin Tank is the founder of Jotform, an automation enthusiast, and author. In this conversation, we explore his journey from rural Turkey to New York, building Jotform without outside funding, and the role customer feedback played in shaping the product. Aytekin also shares strategic insights on company culture, his approach to leadership, and how AI is shaping Jotform’s future. EPISODE LINKS: Aytekin’s Twitter: Aytekin’s LinkedIn: JotForm Website: TIMESTAMPS: 00:00:00 Intro and background 00:00:17 The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 00:00:35 Discovering a Passion for Computers 00:06:02 From Employee to Entrepreneur 00:08:06 Building JotForm: The Early Days 00:12:24 Facing Competition and Growth 00:20:46 Bootstrapping and Company Culture 00:25:00 Balancing Work and Personal Life 00:28:06 Team Collaboration and Culture 00:29:08 Balancing Work and Personal Life 00:30:15 Delegation and Leadership 00:32:08 Focus on AI Product Development 00:33:27 Introducing JotForm AI Agents 00:42:45 The Future of AI in Business 00:54:17 Closing CONNECT: Website: YouTube: Twitter: Instagram: LinkedIn: Apple Podcasts: Spotify: RSS:

Bryan Trilli is an AI expert, entrepreneur, and author of Soulless Intelligence. In this conversation, we explore the ethics and philosophical implications of artificial intelligence, focusing on: -The moral dilemmas of AI development. -Whether AI can ever become conscious. -How AI is changing our understanding of humanity, sentience, and value. EPISODE LINKS: Twitter: https://twitter.com/bryantrilli LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryantrilli Website: https://www.bryantrilli.com TIMESTAMPS: 00:00:00 Exploring Human Sentience and AI 00:03:34 The Ethics and Morality of AI 00:04:50 Philosophical and Religious Perspectives 00:13:25 Defining AGI and Its Implications 00:19:32 Consciousness and Near-Death Experiences 00:24:09 The Intelligence of Machines 00:25:22 Human Worth Beyond Intelligence 00:28:51 Moral Standards and AI 00:31:24 AI and Human Rights 00:38:37 The Future of AI in Physics 00:43:41 Misconceptions and Fears About AI 00:47:27 Closing CONNECT: Website: https://hoo.be/elijahmurray YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elijahmurray Twitter: https://twitter.com/elijahmurray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elijahmurray LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahmurray/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-w-elijah-murray/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elijahmurray RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/3e31c0c/podcast/rss

Assaf Weinburg is a serial entrepreneur and AI enthusiast with over 25 years of experience in product development and business leadership. In this episode of The Long Game, we discuss: How AI is empowering solopreneurs and transforming startups. Insights from Assaf’s AI-driven educational business with his wife. The evolving role of venture capital and workforce structures in the AI age. Why 'play' and joy are critical to productivity and innovation. Whether you’re a startup founder or looking to stay ahead in an AI-driven world, Assaf’s insights will inspire and educate. EPISODE LINKS: Twitter: https://x.com/assafweinberg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/assafweinberg/ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00:00 Welcome to the Long Game Podcast 00:00:49 The Solopreneur Golden Age 00:03:40 Disruption and Opportunity with AI 00:06:13 Building a Business with AI 00:11:36 Case Study: A Two-Person Company 00:21:49 Venturing into HVAC Industry 00:23:41 Childhood Perception of Technology and Business 00:25:13 The Motivation Behind Creation 00:26:13 The Art of Sandwich Making 00:27:53 Finding Joy in Work and Play 00:39:02 AI and the Future of Work 00:43:09 Failure and Playing the Long Game CONNECT: Website: https://hoo.be/elijahmurray YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elijahmurray Twitter: https://twitter.com/elijahmurray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elijahmurray LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahmurray/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-w-elijah-murray/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elijahmurray RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/3e31c0c/podcast/rss

Kyle Bhiro is the 25-year-old co-founder of PensarAI, an open-source AI security platform addressing the challenges of weaponized AI. In this conversation, we explore Kyle's mission to combat AI vulnerabilities, democratize security solutions for developers, and foster open-source innovation. We also dive into his entrepreneurial journey, overcoming imposter syndrome, securing venture funding, and navigating the future of AI. EPISODE LINKS: Website: https://www.pensarai.com/ Twitter: https://x.com/kylebhiro LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylebhiro/ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00:00 Intro and background 00:01:21 Pensar 00:02:55 Trends in AI and Startup Landscape 00:06:51 Building for Customers and Open Source 00:10:34 Pensar Use Cases 00:16:10 The Vision for Pensar 00:20:58 Getting Advisors: The Bold Approach 00:21:41 Leveraging Existing Relationships 00:27:24 Fundraising Tips and Experiences 00:28:48 The Role of Accelerators 00:34:32 The Future of AI 00:38:27 Closing CONNECT: Website: https://hoo.be/elijahmurray YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elijahmurray Twitter: https://twitter.com/elijahmurray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elijahmurray LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahmurray/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-w-elijah-murray/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elijahmurray RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/3e31c0c/podcast/rss

Adam Nagus is a digital transformation leader who has built award-winning digital and data capabilities for organizations like Accenture and FTI Consulting, along with founding Digimasters. Adam's expertise spans strategic workforce planning, generative AI, and design thinking, making him a thought leader in the AI-powered world. In this conversation, we explored: Building and managing AI-focused teams, The importance of empathy and storytelling in data visualization, Integrating AI into organizations for real business outcomes. EPISODE LINKS: Adam Nagus on Twitter: https://x.com/ScubaDam Adam Nagus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamnagus/ Adam's Website: http://digimasters.co.uk/ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00:00 Intro and background 00:01:07 Managing Large Teams: Insights and Challenges 00:07:25 Quantum Computing and Future Technologies 00:10:00 Revolutionizing Data Visualization 00:17:00 Building Effective Data Teams 00:27:14 Defining AI's Role in Organizations 00:28:18 The Chief Data Officer's Perspective 00:29:19 Integrating AI into Products 00:31:40 AI as a Tool, Not a Strategy 00:39:55 The Importance of Empathy in Tech 00:54:12 Advice for Aspiring Data Professionals CONNECT: Website: https://hoo.be/elijahmurray YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elijahmurray Twitter: https://twitter.com/elijahmurray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elijahmurray LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahmurray/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-w-elijah-murray/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elijahmurray RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/3e31c0c/podcast/rss

Anthony Pierri is the co-founder of Fletch PMM, a consultancy that helps early-stage B2B startups sharpen their positioning and better articulate their value propositions. In this conversation, we explored: Why niche marketing is critical for early-stage success How small teams can scale effectively Practical steps for defining a product’s positioning using seven key elements Anthony also dives into the importance of clear messaging, tangible go-to-market assets, and the psychology behind buyer decisions. A must-listen for B2B startups looking to stand out. EPISODE LINKS: Fletch PMM: https://www.fletchpmm.com Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-pierri TIMESTAMPS: 00:00:00 Intro and Background 00:01:20 Fletch PMM 00:01:58 Positioning and Messaging Strategies 00:05:55 Custom Services vs. Productized Services 00:07:50 Vagueness in Product Marketing 00:10:12 Stages of Product Market Fit 00:11:48 Investor Expectations and Market Focus 00:13:06 Executive Alignment and Brand Messaging 00:14:48 Mental Availability and Positioning 00:19:00 Belief Change and Niching Down 00:24:35 Organic Content and Personal Branding 00:29:00 Content Strategy and Funnel Building 00:33:22 Common Homepage Mistakes 00:35:39 The Importance of Focus in Marketing 00:36:39 Voice of the Customer 00:39:53 The Buying Decision Process 00:42:51 Homepages in Customer Acquisition 00:45:03 Positioning Transformation 00:49:24 Steps to Effective Positioning 00:50:53 Choosing the Right Market Segment 01:03:42 Closing CONNECT: Website: https://hoo.be/elijahmurray YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elijahmurray Twitter: https://twitter.com/elijahmurray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elijahmurray LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahmurray/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-w-elijah-murray/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elijahmurray RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/3e31c0c/podcast/rss

Deepak Chintala is a seasoned consultant specializing in business strategy and digital transformation, having driven $100M+ in value through digital initiatives. In this conversation, we explore how state-backed enterprises in the Middle East drive economic impact, the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies like digital twins, and AI's growing influence in modernizing operations and decision-making. EPISODE LINKS: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dchintala/ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00:00 Intro and background 00:00:55 Consulting in Digital Transformation 00:02:04 Challenges in Capital Intensive Industries 00:04:54 State-Backed Companies in the Middle East 00:08:29 Balancing Profit and Public Objectives 00:13:12 Industry 4.0 and Digital Twins 00:18:49 Automation vs. Human Involvement 00:20:17 Challenges of Traditional Logic-Based Systems 00:20:41 Human Adaptability vs. Machine Limitations 00:21:11 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence 00:21:24 AI in the Automotive Industry 00:22:10 AI and Gen AI in Consulting 00:22:40 Liquid Expectations in Digital Tech 00:23:26 Adoption and Use Cases of Gen AI 00:26:33 Challenges in AI Implementation 00:29:38 Future Predictions for AI and Technology 00:32:05 Exciting Technologies Beyond AI 00:34:41 Closing CONNECT: Website: https://hoo.be/elijahmurray YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elijahmurray Twitter: https://twitter.com/elijahmurray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elijahmurray LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahmurray/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-w-elijah-murray/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elijahmurray RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/3e31c0c/podcast/rss