DisQus is a distributive blog comment system that makes your comments more interactive for readers and easier to manage for you — all while connecting your community with other blogs.
Today i did a quick interview with the founder/CEO.
Hey Daniel, How are you today?
I’m very good tonight. It’s a little past 2am here.
Great stuff, Right lets gets started then, Could you give us a bit of background info on you and your business?
Disqus is a web service that builds and connects communities across websites. We do this through a networked comment system, which is, today, used by over quarter million communities.
Our system approaches comments from a social perspective, helping tie together a real community from your site’s audience and the potential audiences scattered around the web.
So, where did your inspiration for Disqus come from?
We started out looking at how engaged web communities can be, especially on message boards and forum communities. The best exchanges and ideas often came from these web societies. I felt that there could be a way to better connect and relate these communities together.
Disqus evolved a bit from there, moving to a focus on conversations found in blog comments, but the core goals has remained the same.
I have to admit, the idea is very innovative, what do those closest to you think of the idea?
My family, long-time friends, and even my girlfriend know a little bit about Disqus, but not too much. I appreciate that they listen and find what I’m doing interesting, but I know they don’t care nearly as much about the internet as I do. And I appreciate that even more.
How have you dealt with setbacks in the past?
We’ve been very fortunate to work with great people along the way who have helped us an incredible number of times. No major setbacks. Not yet.
What are you hobbies outside of Disqus?
I’m still figuring this out, but I imagine that it’ll be something awesome such as fencing or horse riding.
How important do you believe the work/play balance is in life?
It’s very important. Earlier on, this was definitely not work. It was something I wanted to think about all day. Today, I like to mix up my day with other things.
A separation keeps your mind fresh, creative, and ready for more when the time comes.
What would you be doing if you were not doing Disqus?
I’d be working at another web startup. There are so many great areas to explore right now, and you can get into almost anything relatively cheaply and quickly.
What, if any do you think are the disadvantaged of being a young entrepreneur? Do you feel you have missed out on anything in your life that other young people may have accomplished?
I’ve had many amazing opportunities in the last few years. I don’t think I’ve missed anything.
Finally, what “pearls of wisdom would you give to young entrepreneurs... amidst the current unstable economic climate?’’
Learn the importance of tenacity. When you are disadvantaged in every other way, tenacity may be what keeps you in the running. However, don’t use tenacity blindly, remain hungry for ideas and advice and make sure you’re being tenacious for a good goal.
Thank you very much, I appreciate you taking the time to do this quick interview with me.
Connect with daniel on his site
Also check out the DisQus website and learn more about their services.
