Unlocking Creativity with NoCode: JJ Englert's Path from Filmmaker to Entrepreneur using Bubblei.o

In this episode of the Unconventional Founder Podcast, host David McManus interviews JJ, a filmmaker turned entrepreneur, who shares his journey from the film industry to launching a tech startup. JJ discusses the challenges he faced as a non-technical founder, including fundraising and building a marketplace for filmmakers. He emphasizes the importance of learning no-code tools, which allowed him to pivot and create a successful project management suite. The conversation also touches on personal values, the freedom of no-code development, and JJ's current endeavors in the no-code space.

Takeaways

• Ask yourself what the next right move is.
• Films have the power to evoke emotions and influence positively.
• Transitioning careers requires self-discovery and resilience.
• Building a marketplace involves understanding both supply and demand.
• Fundraising is a full-time job for entrepreneurs.
• Learning no-code tools empowers non-technical founders to execute ideas.
• Small goals lead to significant progress over time.
• No-code tools offer freedom for rapid prototyping and iteration.
• Kindness and respect are crucial in every interaction.
• Building a community around no-code elevates the industry.

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Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

02:20
From Jock to Filmmaker: Self-Discovery and Storytelling

06:10
Challenges of Building a Marketplace

10:15
Discovering No-Code Tools

14:30
Fundraising as a Non-Technical Founder

18:45
Pivoting to Create a Project Management Suite

22:10
The Freedom of No-Code Development

26:55
Personal Values: Kindness and Respect

31:30
Building a No-Code Community

36:00
Final Thoughts: Progress, Discovery, and Next Steps

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Companies

JJ’s Marketplace
A platform connecting filmmakers and resources

No-Code Project Management Suite
JJ’s successful pivot using no-code tools

Podia
Mentioned as a resource for online course creators

Webflow
Referenced as a powerful no-code tool

Bubble
Highlighted for building web applications

Notion
Used for productivity and collaboration

Airtable
Cited for database management

Frameworks and Strategies Summary

No-Code Development
Description: Leveraging tools like Webflow, Bubble, and Airtable to build digital products without coding. Enables rapid iteration and execution.
Resource: No-Code Revolution by Tara Reed

Marketplace Design
Description: Understanding supply and demand dynamics, creating value for all stakeholders, and iterating based on user feedback.
Resource: Platform Revolution by Geoffrey G. Parker

Storytelling as a Business Tool
Description: Using storytelling to connect emotionally with audiences and communicate value propositions effectively.
Resource: Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller

Pivoting with Agility
Description: Embracing change and leveraging data or new tools to adapt when necessary.
Resource: The Lean Startup by Eric Ries

Community Building in No-Code
Description: Engaging like-minded individuals to create a collaborative ecosystem for mutual growth.
Resource: Makerpad and other no-code communities

Personal Growth and Kindness
Description: Cultivating self-awareness, empathy, and respect in professional and personal relationships to foster trust and collaboration.
Resource: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

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