Startup founders have a lot on their plates—but one of the most important things they can’t afford to neglect is how they build and lead their early team. Kim talks with executive coach and author Julia Austin about one of the most overlooked—but most important—skills for founders: setting clear expectations and giving helpful feedback early and often. Drawing from Julia’s book After the Idea, they cover how early hires shape company culture, why feedback systems matter from day one, and how to align as a team to create realistic, shared goals. Founders, joiners, and anyone curious about startup life will find valuable advice on leading with clarity, empathy, and purpose—because building a business starts with building relationships.
Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim Scott introduces guest Julia Austin, who shares the inspiration behind her book After the Idea.
(00:02:36) Why Early Hires Matter
How the first 10–15 employees shape startup culture.
(00:04:08) Building Good Systems
The importance of healthy incentives and checks on power.
(00:06:26) Growing Without Losing Trust
The evolution of startups as they scale and the growing pains that follow.
(00:08:14) Preparing for Growth and Change
Managing team expectations as the company shifts and scales.
(00:10:39) Layering Without Losing Trust
Hiring early senior employees with transparency and respect.
(00:14:51) Expectation Setting as a Leadership Tool
Why clearly defined roles and goals are the most underused tools.
(00:17:52) Co-Creating Goals in Startups
Tips on using 30/60/90-day plans and bottoms-up goal setting.
(00:19:53) What to Do When It’s Not Working
Signs of misalignment and navigating tough conversations with care.
(00:22:14) The Value of Contrarians
Why different working styles and perspectives can be strengths.
(00:23:49) Communicating What Success Looks Like
Setting clear goals to reduce ambiguity and guide decision-making.
(00:25:44) Aligning on Growth Strategy
Why co-founders need to agree on the speed and path of scale.
(00:28:10) Building a Culture of Feedback
Small changes that create clarity, reduce fear, and invite real conversations.
(00:29:50) Working With Visionary Founders
Addressing unrealistic expectations while honoring the big picture.
(00:32:02) Staying Connected as You Scale
How founders can stay approachable and in touch as the company grows.
(00:34:55) The Power of In-Person Moments
Why off-Zoom time and shared experiences matter for team trust.
(00:36:20) Common Mistakes Founders Make
Avoiding common traps like bottlenecking, gossip loops, and unclear roles.
(00:38:55) Conclusion
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