Startup Advice

Our decentralized approach for decisions passes the torch of responsibility, enabling fast-paced iteration without the need for approval processes. Individuals make urgent, locally optimal decisions. Any misalignments are then ironed out quickly afterward.

most founders tend to remain high-level when the topic of culture comes up. For starters, there are tons of reads on why culture matters, but strikingly few on how to actually architect it. “We all understand what it means to some extent, but it's rarely defined or broken down. There are frameworks for product/market fit or founder-led sales, but... See more

When you’re anxious, there is no quicker relief than checking things. Checking your Substack subscriber stats, refreshing your inbox and order confirmations.

Scott Belsky coined the term insecurity work to describe work that does not move the ball forward, but is quick enough that you can do it multiple times a day without realizing.

Unlike... See more

A PM I once worked with was struggling to persuade somebody of something. I told him to ask them the question, “What data would I have to show you to get you to change your mind?” If they didn’t have a clear answer, then he would know this was an idea they held on faith, a bit like a religious belief. No amount of data can sway a person from their... See more

Choose Your Reason and Season Wisely

Some entrepreneurs build businesses for a compelling, undeniable, passion-fueled reason regardless of their venture’s timeline. Others hop on a bandwagon or try to master a trend and either sink or swim in one short season. Rather than try to compete with a herd of rats who are already decades ahead of you in an... See more

Apologizing for slow replies is a symptom of unrealistic demands in an always-on culture. How quickly people answer you is rarely a sign of how much they care about you. It’s usually a reflection of how much they have on their plate.