Startup False Starts, Founder vs. VC Perspectives & Scaling Challenges - E556

Jeremy Au unpacked why most startups fail and how failure is often misunderstood especially in Southeast Asia’s tech landscape. He pointed out that failure isn’t just about poor execution or bad luck. It’s often structural, recurring across funding stages, and rooted in deeper issues like team mismatches, market timing, or scaling too fast. He also drew a clear line between economic failure and personal failure, reminding founders that not hitting a return target doesn’t mean they’re bad leaders or people. He shared recurring patterns and what comes next for those who’ve been through it.

1. Good Idea, Wrong Team: Some startups never get off the ground because the team can’t execute—either due to weak dynamics or the wrong mix of skills.

2. False Starts: Products built in a vacuum without real user insight often flop, no matter how technically sound they are.

3. False Positives: Early traction can be misleading—what works in one market or segment may fail in another if context isn’t deeply understood.

4. Speed Trap: Fast growth and big funding can set unrealistic expectations, creating pressure to scale beyond what the team or model can handle.

5. Bad Macro Luck: External events—like funding winters or shifting investor focus—can kill momentum even for strong companies.

6. Cascading Miracles: Some ambitious startups crash despite big raises and press hype, only to see others succeed later with the same core idea.

7. The Second-Time Edge: Founders who’ve succeeded before have better odds next time around, thanks to sharper timing, stronger networks, and better-hiring instincts.

Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.braves ea.com/blog/startup-false-starts

Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com

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