In this episode, I am joined by Eric Simons, the CEO of StackBlitz, we dive deep into the process of building apps using Bolt. Eric shares his process and demonstrates how to use Bolt to build and deploy apps in hours. Learn how to launch your next startup without needing to know how to code!
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
04:33 Building Directory
23:35 Deploying Directory
26:47 Comparing Bolt and Cursor
30:24 Building a Chat Feature
32:02 Integrating Firebase
44:27 Testing Chat Feature
46:59 Success Stories with Bolt
1) Bolt is INSANELY fast for prototyping web apps. In minutes, Eric Simons built a directory site for indie hackers, complete with upvoting and chat functionality.
2) The power of Bolt lies in its simplicity:
• No need to clone repos or install dependencies
• Just describe what you want in plain English
• AI generates the code and UI for you
3) Bolt isn’t just for mockups – it’s for REAL products:
• Built-in deployment to Netlify
• Easy integration with Firebase for backend functionality
• People are launching ACTUAL businesses with Bolt-built apps
4) Pro tip: When building with AI, start simple and add features incrementally. This helps manage complexity and troubleshoot issues more easily.
5) Bolt is democratizing web development:
• Non-devs are building full-stack apps
• Dramatically reduces time and cost compared to traditional development
• Enables rapid prototyping and iteration
6) The future of coding? It’s about becoming an expert AI prompter:
• Understanding how to "drive" LLMs effectively
• Translating ideas into clear instructions
• Iterating on AI-generated code
7) Real-world example: A PM built a viral TikTok hooks app in 2 weeks for $50/month with Bolt. Traditional dev quote? $3-5k and months of work. That’s 100x cost savings and 5-10x faster!
8) Even YC startups are using Bolt to build landing pages, freeing up dev time for core product work. It’s not just for side projects – it’s changing how REAL businesses operate.
9) Want to try Bolt? Here’s how:
• Head to bolt.new
• Type your idea in the input box
• Hit enter and watch the magic happen!
Want more free ideas? I collect the best ideas from the pod and give them to you for free in a database. Most of them cost $0 to start (my fav)
Get access: https://www.gregisenberg.com/30startupideas
Work with me and my team: LCA — world’s best product design firm to build apps, websites and brands people love. https://latecheckout.agency/
BoringAds — ads agency that will build you profitable ad campaigns http://boringads.com/
BoringMarketing — SEO agency and tools to get your organic customers http://boringmarketing.com/
Startup Empire – a membership for builders who want to build cash-flowing businesses https://www.startupempire.co
Stop Building Websites That Look Good But Don’t Sell: https://www.designscientist.com/design-store?b=https://www.designscientist.com/
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Bolt: https://bolt.new
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-simons-a464a664/
