Introducing Build Mode: TechCrunch’s new podcast for founders

As Disrupt 2025 approaches, with tickets still available, TechCrunch is thrilled to introduce a new podcast series: Build Mode. Set to premiere on November 13, this initiative is designed specifically for early-stage founders grappling with the complexities of launching their companies. Hosted by Startup Battlefield Editor Isabelle Johannessen, Build Mode offers a no-nonsense approach to entrepreneurship. Expect frank discussions and practical advice from seasoned founders and investors who have experienced the trials and triumphs of startup life firsthand. Each episode will delve into essential themes such as market entry challenges, fundraising hurdles, recruitment mistakes, and much more that often keep founders awake at night. Listeners can access Build Mode on all major podcast platforms, including Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. Additionally, bonus content and exclusive clips will be shared on TechCrunch’s social media channels like Instagram, X, and TikTok. The countdown to the launch has begun, so for those interested, be sure to check out the trailer for the inaugural season. Season One will kick off by exploring the gritty realities of bringing a product to market, highlighting the successes and setbacks that define the entrepreneurial journey. J.P. Morgan is proudly sponsoring the first season, marking just the beginning of this exciting venture. Build Mode aspires to be more than just a podcast; it aims to cultivate a community of builders supporting one another. With over 1,700 startups having participated in the Startup Battlefield program, the goal is to incorporate the insights and inquiries from listeners into future episodes. Founders, operators, and eager listeners are encouraged to share their experiences and questions. For those who previously followed the Found podcast, welcome back! The archives remain accessible for revisiting invaluable founder interviews and insights from earlier seasons. Build Mode promises to deliver authentic stories and hard-earned lessons, creating a space where anyone with the ambition to launch a startup can learn and grow.