In this week's 'Dear Heretics' segment, Kelli and Nolan discuss a listener's dilemma about working with ethically questionable founders. They explore the tension between startup rule-bending culture and personal values, advising that leadership requires either full alignment with founders or graceful departure.
They reflect on the impossibility of compartmentalizing personal trauma, the importance of workplace support networks, and practical advice for both those experiencing crises and colleagues supporting them.
*Email us your questions or topics for Kelli & Nolan: hrheretics@turpentine.co
For coaching and advising inquire at https://kellidragovich.com/
HR Heretics is a podcast from Turpentine.
Support HR Heretics Sponsors:
Planful empowers teams just like yours to unlock the secrets of successful workforce planning. Use data-driven insights to develop accurate forecasts, close hiring gaps, and adjust talent acquisition plans collaboratively based on costs today and into the future. ✍️ Go to https://planful.com/heretics to see how you can transform your HR strategy.
Metaview is the AI assistant for interviewing. Metaview completely removes the need for recruiters and hiring managers to take notes during interviews—because their AI is designed to take world-class interview notes for you. Team builders at companies like Brex, Hellofresh, and Quora say Metaview has changed the game—see the magic for yourself: https://www.metaview.ai/heretics
KEEP UP WITH NOLAN + KELLI ON LINKEDIN
Nolan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nolan-church/
Kelli: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellidragovich/
—
TIMESTAMPS:
(00:13) Intro
(00:52) Listener's Moral Dilemma with CEO
(02:46) The Gamble With Me Philosophy
(03:07) All In or All Out Leadership
(04:09) Separating Morality from Alignment
(04:38) The Danger of Staying When Misaligned
(06:25) Toxic Without Knowing It
(08:06) Modern Approach to Leadership Exits
(08:53) Sponsors: Planful | Metaview
(11:48) Is This Normal Startup Life?
(12:07) Understanding Startup Rule-Bending
(14:00) The Entrepreneurial Mindset
(15:12) The Popsicle Stand Example
(16:46) Building Your Leadership Brand
(17:27) Working With vs Around Founders
(18:19) The Lemonade Stand Rule
(19:36) Wrap
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
hrheretics.substack.com
