Nodes of Design#118: Design to VC: Growth, Product Pitfalls & PLG Myths with Andy Budd

In this episode of Nodes of Design, we sit down with Andy Budd to explore his fascinating journey from being a designer to thriving as a venture capitalist. Andy shares how his design and product expertise shape his investment strategies and help founders build impactful startups. We dive into the seven key factors that drive growth, the common mistakes founders make with their early products, and the challenges of being the first design or product hire in a startup. Andy also unpacks where growth design fits in today’s landscape and sheds light on why most early-stage growth advice misses the mark. Plus, he tackles one of the most misunderstood strategies in the startup world product-led growth (PLG) and reveals the mistakes he sees founders making time and time again. Whether you're a designer, product enthusiast, or aspiring founder, this episode is packed with insights to level up your understanding of design, growth, and venture capital. About Andy Budd Andy is a Design Leader turned investor, advisor and coach. He's a Venture Partner at Seedcamp, one of the top ranked seed funds in Europe. His new book "The Growth Equation" aims to help startups land their first million in revenue and reach Product Market Fit. A product person at heart, Andy previously founded Clearleft (the first UX agency in the UK), Leading Design and UX London. He's a founding member of the Adobe Design Circle and has appeared on both the Wired 100 and BIMA 100 lists. Andy once worked as a shark diver and recently qualified as a pilot. Andy Budd Book: The Growth Equation: How Early Stage Startups Can Build a Powerful Engine for Growth The Growth Equation is the new book by design founder turned startup investor, advisor, and coach, Andy Budd. In it he explores the challenges most early-stage founders face; from launching your product, finding your first customers, and figuring out what to charge; to improving acquisition, onboarding, and retention; in order to land your first million in revenue and beyond. Thank you for listening to this episode of Nodes of Design. We hope you enjoy the Nodes of Design Podcast on your favorite podcast platforms- Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and many more. If this episode helped you understand and learn something new, please share and join the knowledge-sharing community Spreadknowledge. This podcast aims to make design education accessible to all. Nodes of Design is a non-profit and self-sponsored initiative by Tejj. #design #creativity #ux #vc #business