Transforming Visions into Reality: An Interview with Libby Swan, Co-founder/CEO of Axioned
I had the pleasure of interviewing Libby Swan. The Co-founder/CEO of Axioned. Libby, leads a renowned technology services firm specializing in transforming the visions of Founders and Innovators into lucrative revenue streams by bringing their tech-product ideas to fruition. With over two decades of experience in product development and technology, Libby embarked on her career journey at GE in 2001 through their prestigious technology graduate program, IMLP (Information Management Leadership Program).
What motivated you to launch your startup?
In 2009, I made the decision to join forces with my co-founder, Dev Jhala.
Our motivations stemmed from multiple factors that aligned perfectly.
1. Dev had a strong desire to establish a services firm that could revolutionize the design and development of creative and user-friendly digital experiences. Recognizing the need for such a venture, I found Dev’s vision both compelling and inspiring.
2. As someone seeking a more entrepreneurial path, I saw an opportunity to contribute my expertise gained from working at GE, where I collaborated with service providers to successfully deliver product and technology projects.
3. Both Dev and I shared a common interest in creating a work-life balance that would enable us to connect with the people and cultures we had previously worked with and grown fond of, specifically in countries like the UK, USA, and India.
What is it that excites you about what you’re building?
What excites me about our journey is the opportunity to shape the direction we’re heading and make a significant impact. The constant learning and evolving nature of our work fuels personal and professional growth. Connecting with fascinating individuals who share our passion is inspiring. Supporting careers and fostering growth is fulfilling as an employer. We leverage technology responsibly to create innovative solutions that address challenges and open new possibilities. Helping others bring their tech-product ideas to life is rewarding. Integrating AI and ML enhances our tech-products, unlocking greater efficiency and innovation. Overall, these factors ignite my passion and drive to contribute to a brighter future in the technology industry.
What has been your biggest challenge when growing your startup?
One of the biggest challenges I have encountered while growing my startup has been embracing ongoing changes and challenges. Additionally, knowing when to step back and let others make decisions versus taking the lead myself has been a learning process. Continuous learning is a core value for me, and I actively seek feedback from my co-founder and team and utilize data to identify areas where I need to improve. At times I’ve taken longer to embrace/learn the things I’ve needed to — note/reminder to self.
What are your future plans for your startup?
- To not risk what we have/what we’ve created.
2. To continue to grow what we’ve created by establishing a clearer vision for our future and then making the necessary and no doubt “tough” decisions to get there.
No doubt we’ll continue to pursue serving the needs of Founders and Innovators looking to generate new revenue streams by bringing their tech-product ideas to life.
If you had to share, “words of wisdom,” with a Founder who’s about to start their own startup, what would they be?
It’s great to have a strong vision and lots of passion, but watch the numbers. You want it to be a marathon, not a sprint. Or if you’re going to sprint, ensure that it ends in a “win” whereby the definition of “win” is your preferred definition.
How can our readers follow you on social media?
LinkedIn is best — https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbyswan/
This was very insightful. Thank you so much for joining us!
