But startups ultimately win or lose based on growth. If you pull back on your growth bets, you could fall below the dreaded Mendoza line-and risk being overlooked by potential investors or strategics.

That's why I'm fascinated by the stories of companies who've managed to grow extremely quickly and without burning large sums of money. One company in particular stands out: Hotjar, the product experience insights software.

I had a wide-ranging fireside chat with Hotjar CEO Mohannad Ali at SaaStock in Dublin, and it's my pleasure to share that conversation here (lightly edited for clarity).