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Ask HN: Validating a Tool to Help Founders Stay Focused and Build What Matters

2 points| mmarvramm | 9 months ago

I’m currently validating a problem I’ve seen often (and experienced myself): early-stage founders wasting time building in the wrong direction.

Inspired by the SaaS Playbook, LeanStack, YC School, and other frameworks, I’m exploring an AI-powered tool that guides founders through idea validation and early-stage decision-making—using the best principles, made actionable.

The idea is a self-guided product that combines structured startup advice with AI models like GPT-4 or Claude Opus to act as a real-time co-pilot for early builders.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you felt this pain? Would something like this be useful?

And if you’re open to a quick feedback chat, let me know—especially if you’re a solo founder or early-stage builder (but anyone’s welcome).

Thanks! ~Mihai

2 comments

StriverGuy|9 months ago

Interesting idea. I've definitely felt this pain on several occasions. Somewhat ironic, but I think the hardest part of pulling this off is getting a founder to stay focused/continuously reach for such a tool (e.g. know when to ask for help).

mmarvramm|8 months ago

My hunch is the same. Some fraction of founders want to do this because they love the autonomy. So a tool that keeps them on the right track might feel like a nagging parent vs. a true copilot. Will see how I can better qualify this idea and if it is even worth working on. Let me know if you're open for a 15-30 minute call so I can pick your brain about this pain.