Dusan Babich: South Africa -> Device Magic (Double Exit!) -> New Startup

Triangle Tweener Talks

What does it take to bootstrap a company, achieve a private equity exit, and then score a second windfall with a double exit?

In this episode of Triangle Tweener Talks, Dusan Babich shares his incredible entrepreneurial journey, starting with his move from South Africa to the Triangle in 2015 to grow Device Magic.

Dusan reflects on the lessons learned from an earlier startup failure, how those experiences shaped his approach with Device Magic, and the insights he gained during his private equity journey—including understanding the Rule of 40. He dives into the art of distribution, go-to-market strategies, and why he opted out of traditional VC funding.

But that's not all—Dusan also gives us an exciting sneak peek into his next big venture. Whether you’re a founder, aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about what it takes to thrive in the startup world, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.

Tune in to hear:

• How Dusan turned a failure into a foundation for success
• His decision-making process behind skipping VC funding
• The inside scoop on selling to private equity and the power of the double exit
• Founder tips on distribution and go-to-market strategy
• A preview of what’s next for Dusan Babich

Where to Find Dusan Babich:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dusanbabich/
• X: https://x.com/dusanbabich
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dusanbabich

Where to Find Scot Wingo:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thescotwingo/
• Tweener Times: https://www.tweenertimes.com/
• X: https://x.com/scotwingo

In this episode:

(00:03:17) From Mechanical Engineering to Tech Entrepreneurship

(00:08:39) "It was also not a very fun product in the sense that there was no creativity."

(00:10:35) Relocating for Better Business Opportunities in Tech - "I had promised myself not to try and scale another software business in South Africa."

(00:16:22) Lessons learned from Device Magic + Bootstrapping
(00:18:11) How Dusan exited Device Magic, and then, the Double Exit

(00:29:30) Transitioning from Entrepreneur to Angel Investor

(00:32:11) Building Something New in AI - "It's a crazy space, but it's nice to be building something again."

(00:40:00) Scot's AI Journey

(00:49:00) Lessons to Dusan's 22-year-old Self

Referenced:

• How two South African schoolmates launched a Raleigh-based tech company: https://wraltechwire.com/2019/02/13/how-two-south-african-schoolmates-launched-a-raleigh-based-tech-company/
• How a Raleigh startup has maintained its company culture amid rapid growth: https://wraltechwire.com/2019/04/17/how-a-raleigh-startup-has-maintained-its-company-culture-amid-rapid-growth/
• Dusan on Entrepreneurs on Fire Podcast: https://www.eofire.com/podcast/dusanbabich/

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Triangle Tweener Talks is hosted by Scot Wingo, presented by Triangle Tweener Fund, and produced by Earfluence.