Interview with Ashley Anderson - Code Labs Graduate, Bounce My Big Idea Participant and Founder of MindfulCode
April 26, 2024
As we prepare for our next round of Bounce My Big Idea,1 we caught up with one of our recent cohort participants, Ashley Anderson, Founder of MindfulCode, to hear her take on the program. We couldn’t help but notice Ashley’s reflection on how far she’s come since working through the program, “When I began, I didn't have [a business model] in place. Now, armed with a solid model and the concepts I've learned, I'm ready to take the next steps in developing my business.”
Keep reading to learn more about Ashley’s experience, her tips for aspiring tech entrepreneurs, and how you can join the next cohort of Bounce My Big Idea in May!
Q&A with Ashley
Codefi: Hey Ashley, congratulations on completing the first step in your tech entrepreneurial journey with Bounce My Big Idea! Could you introduce yourself and give us a sneak peek into the problem you’re aiming to solve?
Ashley Anderson: Hello, I'm Ashley Anderson, the founder of MindfulCode. I'm dedicated to developing a solution that empowers caregivers by providing them with a supportive community, comprehensive resources, and personalized tools to navigate their caregiving journey effectively while prioritizing their own well-being.
In Bounce My Big Idea, we encounter folks from all walks of life and industries. What’s your “day job” while you work on your tech dream?
While I work on developing this app, I also serve as a full-time caregiver for my 99-year-old grandmother. It's a privilege to spend my days providing care and support to her, although I also encounter real challenging moments. Being a caregiver has shown me firsthand the difficulties caregivers face, which is why I'm passionate about creating this app to provide solutions and support.
How would you summarize your experience during the 4-week program?
I had an amazing time during the program and learned so much that I couldn't have picked up elsewhere. The weekly sessions and mentorship really helped me understand business strategy in a practical way.
Did you have a specific idea in mind when you started BMBI, and if so, how did it evolve by the end of the program?
Initially, I had a specific revenue model in mind when entering the program. However, after testing its viability, I discovered that it wouldn't work as expected. As a result, I pivoted to another revenue source that proved to be more viable and had the potential to generate greater revenue.
What were some assumptions you held when beginning the program, and how have they changed since completing it?
To be honest, I didn't have many expectations going into BMBI. After having such a positive experience with Code Labs, I had a feeling that BMBI would be equally enriching, and it definitely exceeded my expectations.
What's the most significant mindset shift you underwent during the program?
I was experiencing analysis paralysis, so I made the decision to take action and get things moving. Joining the BMBI program allowed me to break the cycle of indecision and align my priorities, enabling me to progress with my business planning.
In your opinion, what was the most challenging aspect of the program?
Pivoting revenue models presented an initial challenge, but as a business owner, it served as a reminder that challenges are an inherent part of the journey and an opportunity for growth.
Of the frameworks and concepts shared, which one had the greatest impact on your progress?
As someone who loves numbers, the traction roadmap was crucial for my progress. It gave me a clear idea of what to expect and how to move forward.
Reflecting on your progress from a few weeks ago to now, what are you most proud of?
I'm particularly proud of developing my business model throughout this program. When I began, I didn't have one in place. Now, armed with a solid model and the concepts I've learned, I'm ready to take the next steps in developing my business.
What's the most valuable takeaway from the program that you'll carry forward as you continue your journey?
One of the most valuable lessons from the program was learning how to conduct a feasibility assessment for a business idea. Understanding how to stress test an idea to determine its desirability, viability, and feasibility is a skill that I will continue to apply in my entrepreneurial journey.
What advice would you give to someone considering signing up for the program?
I'm a firm believer in taking risks, so my advice is to go for it! Whether you're in the idea phase or starting up your business, this program is invaluable for helping you decide whether to move forward with your plans.
Feeling the tug to bounce your big idea with Codefi? Applications are open for the May 2024 cohort for a few more weeks. Learn more and apply today!