

Failure is a choose-your-own adventure for startups (re-run)
Dec 28, 2022
A deep dive into the realities of startup failure reveals layers of complexity often overlooked in the media. Discussions challenge sensationalized narratives by redefining what failure means: it’s not just about catastrophic collapses but also the struggles along the way. They highlight the unique obstacles faced by female founders and the biases in their media coverage. With an eye on recent layoffs and changing market dynamics, the conversation advocates for more nuanced and empathetic reporting on all founders navigating this unpredictable landscape.
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Over and Under Covered
- Startup failure is both over-covered with documentaries on major implosions.
- It's also under-covered, as founders get upset when normal startup mistakes are investigated.
Defining Failure
- Outlier implosions like Theranos and WeWork don't represent typical startup failure.
- Focus should be on non-fraudulent startups and their struggles.
Struggle vs. Failure
- High standards blur the lines between struggle and failure in startups.
- Missing expectations, especially regarding growth and funding, contributes to this.