Follow the Gradient The VC Trap, Failure Myths & The Power of Bootstrapping with Lea von Bidder
Feb 19, 2025
Embark on a journey through the turbulent world of startups! Discover the VC treadmill and its impact on control and autonomy. Lea von Bidder shares her candid experiences with funding—and how bootstrapping can be a game changer. Delve into the emotional rollercoaster of startup failures and the stark reality behind glamorous success stories. Learn about the cultural nuances of entrepreneurship in Europe and why failure shouldn't define personal identity. This insightful discussion offers valuable lessons on resilience and finding balance in the entrepreneurial landscape.
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Hidden Costs of VC Funding
- Venture capital comes with hidden costs like losing company ownership and constant pressure to grow.
- Founders often face anxiety due to the relentless pursuit of increasing valuations.
Choosing Investors
- Conduct thorough reference calls with other founders who have worked with potential investors.
- This helps identify red flags and make informed decisions, especially in limited investor pools.
Bootstrapping Hesitations
- Lea von Bidder's transition to bootstrapping Experly involved personal financial concerns and adapting to a hands-on role.
- She questioned her ability to handle various tasks after leading a large team at Ava.