The new AI growth playbook for 2026: How Lovable hit $200M ARR in one year | Elena Verna (Head of Growth)
The new AI growth playbook for 2026: How Lovable hit $200M ARR in one year | Elena Verna (Head of Growth)
The new AI growth playbook for 2026: How Lovable hit $200M ARR in one year | Elena Verna (Head of Growth)
In this episode, Elena Verna returns to discuss how the explosive growth of AI-native companies like Lovable is rewriting the rules of traditional growth strategy. With unprecedented scalability and minimal overhead, these organizations are thriving not through incremental optimization, but by embracing constant innovation and cultural resonance in ways that challenge long-standing playbooks.
Elena Verna reveals that for AI-first companies like Lovable, up to 70% of traditional growth tactics are obsolete. Growth now hinges on continuous product innovation rather than funnel optimization, with teams re-finding product-market fit every few months due to rapid advancements in AI. The focus has shifted from activation to shipping new features at high velocity, driven by 'vibe coding'—a culture where developers use AI to rapidly prototype and iterate. Free distribution replaces paid ads as a core growth lever, removing friction and building user loyalty. Community, founder-led social engagement, and emotional connection through design ('love marks') fuel organic reach. Retention stems from ongoing value delivery, not pricing models. Internally, Lovable hires for autonomy, uses real-world trials, and empowers generalists who thrive in chaos. The company also addresses gender gaps in AI through initiatives like SheBuilds. Ultimately, success in AI demands adaptability, human creativity, and alignment between personal values and fast-paced innovation.
11:38
11:38
A man used Lovable to create a marriage proposal that unlocked deep creative potential.
12:17
12:17
Lovable doesn't optimize for revenue but believes more users will drive revenue as an outcome.
26:09
26:09
Shipping velocity is the top value for Lovable's development team
33:27
33:27
Influencer marketing is 10 times more effective than paid social due to visual storytelling.
38:09
38:09
Hire people who see work as a hobby, not just professionals from big companies
41:30
41:30
We pay people during work trials to see how they perform in real conditions.
45:50
45:50
Vibe coding has dramatically accelerated our work velocity and opened new possibilities in product development.
49:46
49:46
Community is a core growth lever, with hundreds of thousands in Discord and an ambassador program
51:47
51:47
Lovable gives away credits at events and hackathons as a growth strategy
59:11
59:11
The free-giving model isn't VC-subsidized; companies are making their own money.
1:00:25
1:00:25
Every AI company must re-find product-market fit every three months.
1:11:31
1:11:31
The wrong fit in an AI company can lead to quick burnout.
1:14:29
1:14:29
Saying no to work when family needs come first is essential for sustainable success
1:18:07
1:18:07
Vibe coding helps break down ideas and align with engineering teams
1:22:35
1:22:35
Recent podcast videos featuring female AI builders are outperforming well-known figures.
