Gentle Power 30. An ex-Google corporate attorney on negotiations
This week we’re joined by Alex Daniels, founder of Decrypted Law and a JD-MBA who is ex-Google, has advised startups and investors during his time at Cooley, and now through his own practice. Alex helps founders and employees navigate legal complexity and drive equitable outcomes through intentional legal design. We explore the structures that keep negotiations ethical, equitable, and grounded in real leverage.
Our conversation covers:
What founders and employees should know about clawback clauses, non-competes, non-solicits, and NDAs, and why the language matters more than the label
How to approach severance negotiations, what “reasonable” looks like, and when to consider outside counsel
How personal disclosures can shift power in negotiations, and why the wrong timing or location-based pay changes can expose companies to discrimination claims
The difference between RSAs, RSUs, and ISOs, and how early exercise or cash compensation can preserve real value over time
We also share:
Alex’s journey from Google to Cooley to building his own flat-fee law firm for startups
A true case of a relocation gone wrong and what founders can learn about jurisdiction and fairness
Why reading and understanding every clause in your offer or CIIAA is the strongest move you can make
The more awareness you bring to the table, the better equipped you are to ensure your best outcome, and our conversation with Alex provides the tools to navigate your next contract confidently.
For more:
Book free consultation call with Alex: Calendly
Get our free negotiation worksheet: YourNegotiations.com
Read our weekly newsletter: Newsletter
Instagram: @yournegotiations