The Builder Circle™: The Hardware Startup Success Podcast

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Latest Episodes:

S3 E1: Mastering Tech Adoption and The Hardware Development Workflow with Jon Hirshtick Sep 30, 2025

This episode is all about hardware, with none other than Jon Hirschtick, the mind behind SolidWorks and Onshape (onshape.pro/thebuildercircle). Jon has spent his career building the tools that engineers use to design, prototype, and ship world-changing products. We dug into the ethos of hardware development, what it takes to earn your seat in the engineering workflow, and how software can unlock (or block) real innovation in hardware. In this episode, you'll discover:

⚙️ How to turn a product idea into a real-world innovation.

⚙️ Jon Hirschtick’s untold parts of the journey (SolidWorks & Onshape) + lessons from building world-changing tools.

⚙️ Why customer needs—not wants—are the true foundation of great products.

⚙️How to uncover real problems vs. surface-level requests.

⚙️ Strategies to earn your seat in the engineering workflow & drive adoption.

⚙️ Why usage trumps sales when proving product-market fit.

⚙️ Smarter ways to size markets & avoid founder pitfalls.

⚙️ How humility, curiosity, and customer visits fuel innovation.

⚙️ Why failure sits right next to success (and how to iterate fast).

⚙️ The 3 must-have software types every hardware team needs.

⚙️ Lightning takes on open APIs, modeling approaches, building in public vs. stealth, and more.

👉 If you’re a hardware founder, engineer, or product builder, this one’s packed with battle-tested advice, real stories, and frameworks to help you build better.

This episode is generously brought to you by our sponsor Onshape, the only cloud-native product development platform. Onshape combines professional-grade CAD with built-in PDM and real-time collaboration tools—all in one system, with no downloads required. Through the Onshape Startup Program, eligible hardware startups receive free access to Onshape Professional for one year, including integrated CAM. Apply now at onshape.pro/thebuildercircle.

Please don't forget to share, rate and like the podcast on your favorite podcast platform!

Music by: Tom Stoke

DISCLAIMER The Builder Circle by Pratik” and “Pratik Development LLC” are independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by any other company. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts and guests. Content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners are responsible for their own decisions and should consult qualified professionals. By listening, you agree we are not liable for any outcomes related to the use of this content.

S2 E9: Global Supply Chain Strategy with Ying Liu Mar 19, 2024

This podcast episode features an in-depth conversation with Ying Liu CEO of BlueLake Packaging, a seasoned expert in hardware product development and the sustainable packaging industry. Drawing from her extensive experience, including building Apple's supply chain infrastructure in China, Ying shares valuable insights on

outsourcing vs. insourcing,
establishing strong supplier relationships,
the importance of quality in product development,
the challenges of scaling production and
the critical role of sustainability in manufacturing.

Ying emphasizes the need for financial prudence, leveraging community support, and the importance of assembling a competent team. Through practical advice and personal anecdotes, this episode offers hardware entrepreneurs a comprehensive guide on bringing their innovative ideas to market, maintaining high standards of quality, and making sustainable choices in their manufacturing processes.

Please don't forget to share, rate and like the podcast on your favorite podcast platform!

Music by: Tom Stoke (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)

DISCLAIMER Please be aware that "The Builder Circle by Pratik" and "Pratik Development LLC" are entirely independent and are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by any other company or any of its subsidiaries. The views, opinions, and content expressed in our podcast are exclusively those of "The Builder Circle by Pratik" and "Pratik Development LLC" and do not reflect the views, opinions, or policies of any other company or any associated entities. The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Pratik Development, LLC., the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional services. Listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to their business, product development, or any other matters discussed in the podcast. Listeners are responsible for conducting their own research, due diligence, and making informed decisions based on their specific circumstances. Please note, the information presented in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. We strongly advise consulting with a professional legal advisor for any intellectual property concerns. By accessing and listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of the podcast shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or any other damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the information presented in the podcast. Listeners are advised to independently verify any information presented and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of this podcast. By continuing to listen to this podcast, you indicate your understanding and acceptance of this disclaimer.

S2 E8: Quality Engineering and Strategy for Hardware with Matt Lipsitz Mar 05, 2024

Quality or sustaining engineering sound like big initiatives that only exist in big companies like GE or P&G but this is a common misconception in the startup world. Having a quality mindset and culture should come into play the first day of product development.I am excited to have Matthew Lipsitz, Head of Quality at Formlabs on to discuss exactly this. Formlabs started as a startup and scaled right in front of our eyes but quality was always front-in-mind. We talk about;

defining #quality,
applying quality from day 1,
how to create a low-touch and non-burdensome quality infrstructure in a startup
and much more!

Music by: Tom Stoke (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)

S2 E7: Intellectual Property Strategy for Hardware Startups with Troy Grabow Feb 20, 2024

In this podcast, TBC host and Pratik founder Sera Evcimen has a discussion with patent attorney Troy Grabow about the importance of intellectual property (IP) strategy for hardware startups. They explore

the differences between patents and trade secrets,
the complex process of filing and maintaining patents, and the potential costs involved,
the strategic decisions startups need to make regarding patenting their inventions or keeping them as trade secrets,
underline the significance of clear agreements on IP ownership in co-development and supplier relationships.

Troy emphasizes the value of IP as a startup's principal asset in the early stages, and advises startups on managing related costs, risks of overseas operations, and the importance of employee IP education.

You can find Troy's company here: https://www.grabowlaw.com/

Resource Highlight: Hardware Meetup (an informal project) is a global community of over 25k hardware professionals that meet in cities around the world to network, share insights, and find collaborators, investors, and partners. With 30 chapters and growing, and partnerships with recognizable hardware brands like Google X, Tesla, Solidworks, and Onshape. Attend a local IRL Hardware Meetup for an invite! Find your city chapter at hardwaremeetup.com

Music by: Tom Stoke (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)

S2 E6: Complex System Development with Kristine Barnes Feb 06, 2024

In this episode, Kristine Barnes shares her extensive experience in the world of complex systems, straddling the fields of nuclear power and automotive engineering. She hails from General Motors and an executive member of Society of Women Engineers.

At the end of the episode you will walk away with knowing:

how to proactively start writing requirements for your complex system,
how to effectively conduct a DFMEA (design failure modes effects analysis),
risk managing,
strategizing product focus and,
executing development for a successful complex system launch.

Hey! If you liked this episode you should also listen to: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2GZlF2JUCAhCh2xYc8XpN2?si=819b2bc4bd11490a

Time Markers:

38:46 Podcast break

01:08:11 TLDL

DISCLAIMER Please be aware that "The Builder Circle by Pratik" and "Pratik Development LLC" are entirely independent and are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by General Motors or Society of Women Engineers or any of their respective subsidiaries. The views, opinions, and content expressed in our podcast are exclusively those of "The Builder Circle by Pratik" and "Pratik Development LLC" and do not reflect the views, opinions, or policies of General Motors or Society of Women Engineers or any associated entities. The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Pratik Development, LLC., the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional services. Listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to their business, product development, or any other matters discussed in the podcast. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are based on the personal experiences and expertise of the hosts and guests. However, they do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or effectiveness of any information shared. The hosts and guests disclaim any liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.It is important to note that every situation is unique, and what may work for one individual or business may not work for another. Listeners are responsible for conducting their own research, due diligence, and making informed decisions based on their specific circumstances.By accessing and listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of the podcast shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or any other damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the information presented in the podcast. Listeners are advised to independently verify any information presented and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of this podcast. By continuing to listen to this podcast, you indicate your understanding and acceptance of this disclaimer.

S2 E5: Rapid Prototyping Deep Dive with Greg Paulsen Jan 23, 2024

In this deep-dive episode, Greg Paulsen, Director of Applications, Engineering and Marketing at Xometry, discusses the complexities and intricacies of physical product development.

He highlights the importance of understanding different manufacturing methods and the potential biases they can introduce in the design process.
The episode delves into the pros and cons of various 3D printing technologies such as filament-based, powder bed fusion, and resin-based methods.
Greg also points out the potential pitfalls of not considering scalability when developing prototypes. He underscores the need for clear communication regarding design requirements and having in-depth discussions about the design and manufacturing processes for successful product development.

This episode is NOT sponsored by Xometry however they have provided a perk for TBC listeners:

Take $25 off an order of over $100 through Xometry's Instant Quoting Engine® using the promotion code BldCirPod2024. Limit one use per customer. This offer expires on June 30, 2024.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Music by: Joel Caffey and Tom Stoke (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)

DISCLAIMER Please be aware that "The Builder Circle by Pratik" and "Pratik Development LLC" are entirely independent and are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Xometry, Inc. or any of its subsidiaries. The views, opinions, and content expressed in our podcast are exclusively those of "The Builder Circle by Pratik" and "Pratik Development LLC" and do not reflect the views, opinions, or policies of Xometry, Inc. or any associated entities. The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Pratik Development, LLC., the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional services. Listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to their business, product development, or any other matters discussed in the podcast. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are based on the personal experiences and expertise of the hosts and guests. However, they do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or effectiveness of any information shared. The hosts and guests disclaim any liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.It is important to note that every situation is unique, and what may work for one individual or business may not work for another. Listeners are responsible for conducting their own research, due diligence, and making informed decisions based on their specific circumstances.By accessing and listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of the podcast shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or any other damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the information presented in the podcast. Listeners are advised to independently verify any information presented and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of this podcast. By continuing to listen to this podcast, you indicate your understanding and acceptance of this disclaimer.

S2 E4: Scaling up Manufacturing with Scott Miller Jan 09, 2024

Scott Miller is back again on the Builder Circle! A true hardware veteran, in this episode we will be privileged enough to talk with him within the realm of his professional sweet spot: how to properly scale your manufacturing with a focus on injection molding! The episode will dive into:

When should a product team know to convert to injection molding? From a technological readiness level, unit economics and supply chain strategy perspective.
More specifically, how many units should companies be aiming to produce for injection molding to make sense?
What are some other manufacturing techniques that work at scale? What are some considerations for each technique?

And many more!

A hardware startup and interested in getting advice from our host, Sera Evcimen? That's exactly what Pratik is for! Contact us at hello@pratikdev.com with information on your product and what you need help with and let's get started!

Don't forget to rate the episode and share it with your network for a broader reach and positive impact in the hardware world! Thank you for your support :)

All disclaimers mentioned in previous episodes hold true for this episode. Please visit the first 10 episode notes for details. Thank you!

S2 E3: Strategic Planning for Hardware Success with Pete Blake Dec 25, 2023

From leveraging your ecosystem to building your product roadmap and from managing your board to determining who to hire and why, this episode has it all. Pete Blake from Sapphire Steel is a fellow All-Star Mentor at Techstars. In this episode we dive deep into:

How to strategically incorporate your ecosystem in hardware development and launch
The mindset shift between research and productization
Finding your unique value in the value chain
Effective ways to set up your board and board meetings

And many many more! Some resources that were mentioned in the episode:

Book recommendation: Pasteur's Quadrant: Basic Science and Technological Innovation
Article Recommendation on Systematic Hiring utilizing Skill Matrices: Finding the Right Balance: Hiring or Outsourcing for Your High-Potential Startup Team

Don't forget to rate the episode and share it with your network for a broader reach and positive impact in the hardware world! Thank you for your support :)

All disclaimers mentioned in previous episodes hold true for this episode. Please visit the first 10 episode notes for details. Thank you!

S2 E2: Demystifying Medical Device and System Development with Alan Cohen Dec 12, 2023

This episode features a conversation between host, Sera Evcimen, and Alan Cohen, author of 'Prototype to Product: A Practical Guide for Getting to Market'. They delve into the complexities, misconceptions and opportunities in medical device development. The discussion includes the importance of generating good requirements, handling regulatory requirements, and conducting risk analysis. They also highlight the value of hiring experts conversant in both engineering and regulatory matters to guide a startup through navigating the FDA and EU approval processes.

You can find his consultancy at www.alancohen.com.

Rundown of Episode for easy navigation to topics of interest:

00:00 Introduction and Host Background
00:58 Guest Introduction: Alan Cohen
01:32 Alan Cohen's Background and Experience
02:37 Challenges in Medical Device Development
05:40 Identifying a Hardware Medical Application Need
07:48 Understanding Reimbursement and Business Models
09:32 Regulatory Bodies and Compliance
12:50 Risk Assessment in Medical Device Development
21:22 Fault Tree Analysis vs Failure Modes and Effects Analysis
27:48 Balancing Documentation and Process in Medical Device Development
33:01 Understanding Development Process Standards
33:19 Importance of Following Your Process
33:42 Inspection and Audit Procedures
34:16 Balancing FDA Requirements and Lean Operations
35:13 Testing and Validation in Medical Device Development
36:43 Navigating FDA and Institutional Review Boards
40:02 Challenges in Medical Device Innovation and Funding
47:16 Podcast Break
47:29 Podcast break
56:02 Navigating Supply Chain and Manufacturing Challenges
01:04:09 Understanding FDA and EU Regulatory Differences
01:07:00 Final Thoughts and Advice for Medical Device Startups
Ending with TLDL!

Music by: Tom Stoke (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)

S2 E1: From Code to Creation: The Building Blocks of Firmware with Elecia White Nov 28, 2023

Elecia White has worked on DNA scanners, inertial measurement units for airplanes and race cars, toys for preschoolers, a gunshot location system for catching criminals, and assorted other medical and consumer devices. She is the founder of Logical Elegance, an embedded systems consulting company based in San Jose and the host of the Embedded FM podcast. Elecia has strong skills in signal processing, hardware integration, complex system design, and performance. Having been through FAA and FDA certification processes, she understands the importance of producing quality designs and how they lead to quality implementations.

In this episode we answer the questions:

What is firmware and why is it important for a hardware to have a very robust firmware system architecture?
- Could you walk us through a typical firmware build out/development process? How long does it often take? How many iterations are there usually?
How should a startup decide to either insource or outsource firmware specifically?
What are common misconceptions around firmware? What do people get wrong when planning?
What are the most common firmware pitfalls for startups and how could they be avoided?
What is the best way ME, EE and SW teams could interface with firmware teams?
What are the more critical tests to do to ensure the firmware risks are mitigated?

The Hardware Resource Spotlight for this episode is ScaleForClimatetech, a NYSERDA supported program that provides resources to climate tech entrepreneurs to scale up their technologies, to learn more visit: www.forclimatetech.org/innovator-services. Application deadline to be a part of this upcoming cohort is December 4th.

Music by: Tom Stoke (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)

S1 E9: Building a Strong Capital Stack for a Hardware Product with Orin Hoffman Jul 25, 2023

Orin Hoffman is a seasoned hardware veteran and VC investor passionate about enabling hardware through capital. In this episode we dive into two main questions:

How does a hardware entrepreneur strategically source capital to have a successful hardware product?
What are the common pitfalls and failures hardware teams do when building their capital stack?

Don't have time to listen to the full episode? Totally understandable, scroll to the end to get the key takeaways and summary during the TL;DL (too long didn't listen) segment!Music by: Joel Caffey and Tom Stoke (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)DISCLAIMERThe content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Pratik Development, LLC., the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional services. Listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to their business, product development, or any other matters discussed in the podcast.The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are based on the personal experiences and expertise of the hosts and guests. However, they do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or effectiveness of any information shared. The hosts and guests disclaim any liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.It is important to note that every situation is unique, and what may work for one individual or business may not work for another. Listeners are responsible for conducting their own research, due diligence, and making informed decisions based on their specific circumstances.By accessing and listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of the podcast shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or any other damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the information presented in the podcast.Furthermore, the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose.Listeners are advised to independently verify any information presented and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of this podcast.By continuing to listen to this podcast, you indicate your understanding and acceptance of this disclaimer.

S1 E8: Tackling Industrial Design and Regenerative Materials with PROWL Jul 10, 2023

PROWL is design and strategy studio helping companies reach their product design and climate goals. Lauryn Menard and Bailie Mischler (Davis) bring a wealth of experience and intuition around industrial design and utilizing regenerative materials in physical product design. In this episode, PROWL and I will talk through the following 2 big questions:

Why is industrial design important and when should industrial designers be included in the product development cycle?
What are regenerative materials and why is it important to shift our design culture to incorporate them in the material selection process?

S1 E7: Level Up Your Hardware Product Pitch with Haje Kamps Jun 27, 2023

Haje Kamps is an entrepreneur, pitch coach, hardware enthusiast and former VC. He brings a wealth of experience and intuition around the art of pitching hardware products for a successful fundraise and wide-spread adoption. In this specialty episode, Haje and I will talk through the following questions:

Why should builders care about their pitch, shouldn't the technology stand for itself?
What are the common pitfalls founders fall into when putting together their pitch?
What do investors care about in a pitch?
What metrics are important to put in place so that the hardware product pitch writes itself?
What different versions of the deck should exist and what should their function be?

Don't have time to listen to the full episode? Totally understandable, scroll to the end (52:20) to get the key takeaways and summary during the TL;DL (too long didn't listen) segment!Music by: Joel Caffey and Tom Stoke (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)DISCLAIMERThe content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Pratik Development, LLC., the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional services. Listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to their business, product development, or any other matters discussed in the podcast.The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are based on the personal experiences and expertise of the hosts and guests. However, they do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or effectiveness of any information shared. The hosts and guests disclaim any liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.It is important to note that every situation is unique, and what may work for one individual or business may not work for another. Listeners are responsible for conducting their own research, due diligence, and making informed decisions based on their specific circumstances.By accessing and listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of the podcast shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or any other damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the information presented in the podcast.Furthermore, the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose.Listeners are advised to independently verify any information presented and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of this podcast.By continuing to listen to this podcast, you indicate your understanding and acceptance of this disclaimer.

S1 E6: Pivots, Trials, Errors, and Validation in Product Development with Madhavi Gavini Jun 13, 2023

In this Hardware Case Study episode we talk to Madhavi Gavini, CEO of Droplette. If you are a founder, engineer, product team or builder who has the following questions, this episode is for you!

Sunk Cost Fallacy: How can we avoid the sunken cost fallacy and prevent over-engineering and unnecessary features from hindering the minimal viability of our products?
Pivots: How do you feel confident in the decision to pivot? How do you execute on a pivot successfully?
Insource vs Outsource Perspective: How can we make informed decisions about insourcing and outsourcing in product development, considering core competencies and institutional knowledge?
Failure Mode Strategy: What strategies can we employ to mitigate failure modes and minimize potential damage, particularly in products designed for human interaction?
Product Design & Testing: What are the key elements of effective design and test strategy that fuel successful product development, and how can they be implemented in the hardware industry for optimal results?

Join us as we aim to answer these questions and gain valuable insights from Madhavi Gavini during this fun conversation.Music by: Joel Caffey and Tom Stoke (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)DISCLAIMERThe content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Pratik Development, LLC. ("The Builder Circle by Pratik", parent company), the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional services. Listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to their business, product development, or any other matters discussed in the podcast.The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are based on the personal experiences and expertise of the hosts and guests. However, they do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or effectiveness of any information shared. The hosts and guests disclaim any liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.It is important to note that every situation is unique, and what may work for one individual or business may not work for another. Listeners are responsible for conducting their own research, due diligence, and making informed decisions based on their specific circumstances.By accessing and listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of the podcast shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or any other damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the information presented in the podcast.Furthermore, the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose.Listeners are advised to independently verify any information presented and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of this podcast.By continuing to listen to this podcast, you indicate your understanding and acceptance of this disclaimer.

S1 E5: The Path of Product Design for Successful Development with William Burke May 30, 2023

William Burke is a seasoned mechanical engineer and hardware enthusiast. He is passionately building tools for the next generation of hardware engineers through his company Five Flute. In this episode we explore key questions related to engineering design and product development:

How can we strike the right balance between extremes in engineering design requirements?
What is the importance of understanding use cases and generating a Product Requirements Document (PRD) with minimal prescribed numbers?
Why should we prioritize a core subset of non-negotiable or known values in our designs?
How can we effectively update and maintain requirements as we gather more information and insights?
What are the best practices for conducting user studies and extracting valuable feedback to inform the design process?

Join us as we aim to answer these questions and gain valuable insights from William Burke during this fun conversation.

Music by: Joel Caffey and Tom Stoke (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)

DISCLAIMERThe content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Pratik Development, LLC., the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional services. Listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to their business, product development, or any other matters discussed in the podcast.The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are based on the personal experiences and expertise of the hosts and guests. However, they do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or effectiveness of any information shared. The hosts and guests disclaim any liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.It is important to note that every situation is unique, and what may work for one individual or business may not work for another. Listeners are responsible for conducting their own research, due diligence, and making informed decisions based on their specific circumstances.By accessing and listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of the podcast shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or any other damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the information presented in the podcast.Furthermore, the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose.Listeners are advised to independently verify any information presented and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of this podcast.By continuing to listen to this podcast, you indicate your understanding and acceptance of this disclaimer.

S1 E4: Cracking the Code of Hardware Manufacturing with Scott Miller May 15, 2023

Scott Miller is a seasoned entrepreneur, engineer and supply chain/manufacturing expert. He has been involved in many teams that were focused on getting concept to product including the first ever Roomba! He brings a wealth of knowledge, rules of thumb and kindness to entrepreneurs all around. What you can expect from this episode is discussions around:

Outsourcing vs. insourcing: metrics to make an informative decision that works best with your business and innovation product
Working with manufacturers, factories and suppliers from a low leverage standpoint
Timing and Design Stability
Lifecycle Testing
Dual-Sourcing
Approaching and finding the right fit with Contract Manufacturers
Quality Assurance
Setting up Manufacturing Service Agreements (MSAs) for success and leverage
Sourcing Options for components globally

Music by: Joel Caffey (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)DISCLAIMERThe content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Pratik Development, LLC., the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional services. Listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to their business, product development, or any other matters discussed in the podcast.The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are based on the personal experiences and expertise of the hosts and guests. However, they do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or effectiveness of any information shared. The hosts and guests disclaim any liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.It is important to note that every situation is unique, and what may work for one individual or business may not work for another. Listeners are responsible for conducting their own research, due diligence, and making informed decisions based on their specific circumstances.By accessing and listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of the podcast shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or any other damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the information presented in the podcast.Furthermore, the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose.Listeners are advised to independently verify any information presented and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of this podcast.By continuing to listen to this podcast, you indicate your understanding and acceptance of this disclaimer.

S1 E3: Navigating the Full Product Development Lifecycle with Bridget Hunter-Jones May 15, 2023

In our first hardware case study episode, we talk to Bridget Hunter-Jones from Impact Biosystems, a startup developing an adaptive muscle scanner hardware and software solution, about the following topics;

Market Research and Validation
Communicating Complex Systems to a Mass Audience
Insourcing vs. Outsourcing Functions at an Early Stage (i.e. engineering, industrial design, manufacturing..etc.)

Product Design Strategy and Requirements Generation
Finding, Choosing and Managing Overseas Vendors

Determining Target Cost of Goods

Design Considerations

Note: This episode provides insights into market research, effective communication, engineering decisions, supplier relationships, cost determination, yield optimization, and design considerations in the hardware manufacturing industry.Music by: Joel Caffey (in addition to royalty-free music provided by Descript)DISCLAIMERThe content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Pratik Development, LLC., the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional services. Listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to their business, product development, or any other matters discussed in the podcast.The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are based on the personal experiences and expertise of the hosts and guests. However, they do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or effectiveness of any information shared. The hosts and guests disclaim any liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.It is important to note that every situation is unique, and what may work for one individual or business may not work for another. Listeners are responsible for conducting their own research, due diligence, and making informed decisions based on their specific circumstances.By accessing and listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of the podcast shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or any other damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the information presented in the podcast.Furthermore, the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose.Listeners are advised to independently verify any information presented and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of this podcast.By continuing to listen to this podcast, you indicate your understanding and acceptance of this disclaimer.

S1 E2: Mastering the Art of Modern Hardware Development and Innovation with Tyler Mincey May 15, 2023

In this episode, we delve into the world of modern hardware development and uncover its intricacies. Tyler Mincey, shares invaluable experiences from his time at Apple during the launch of the first iPhone, as well as his insights as a General Partner interacting with hardware entrepreneurs daily. Gain exclusive perspectives from industry giants like Apple and be inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit that drives innovation forward. Get ready for a deep dive into the remarkable journey of bringing revolutionary hardware products to life.The Episode centers around:

Tailoring Program Management
The Power of Demos and Prototypes
Iterative Testing for Success
Balancing Design Fidelity and Collaboration
Harnessing the Power of Constraints
R&D and Moving the Constraints
Validating Technology and Business Viability
The Future of Hardware Development: Embracing AI for Accelerated Innovation

The Pilot: Unveiling the Blueprint of "The Builder Circle" May 13, 2023

Introducing The Builder Circle, a podcast dedicated to helping individuals transform their ideas into physical systems and products. Created out of a passion for mentoring and assisting entrepreneurs, this podcast aims to bridge the gap between aspiring founders and the expertise they need. The episodes are designed to be easily consumable, with TL;DL (Too Long; Didn't Listen) summaries at the end, allowing listeners to grasp key takeaways in a shorter time frame. The podcast offers actionable advice, expert insights, and discusses real-world case studies to empower and inspire entrepreneurs.Join us on this exciting journey as we delve into topics such as manufacturing, product design, and supply chain management, providing guidance every step of the way.Music Credit: Tom Stoke and Joel Caffey (alongside royalty free music provided by Descript)DISCLAIMER Thank you for listening to The Builder Circle podcast. The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. The hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast are not engaged in rendering legal, financial, or other professional services. Listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to their business, product development, or any other matters discussed in the podcast.The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are based on the personal experiences and expertise of the hosts and guests. However, they do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or effectiveness of any information shared. The hosts and guests disclaim any liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.It is important to note that every situation is unique, and what may work for one individual or business may not work for another. Listeners are responsible for conducting their own research, due diligence, and making informed decisions based on their specific circumstances.By accessing and listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of the podcast shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or any other damages arising out of or in connection with the use of the information presented in the podcast.Furthermore, the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose.Listeners are advised to independently verify any information presented and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of this podcast.By continuing to listen to this podcast, you indicate your understanding and acceptance of this disclaimer.

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