My friend Jonathan has chosen to remain anonymous in exchange for stepping outside his comfort zone — and that he did! Eight years ago, he began a gradual exit from his incredibly successful, bootstrapped company. This strategic approach had an unexpected benefit: it smoothed his post-exit transition, making it more manageable both emotionally and financially. His search for a new purpose—a lengthy and confusing path for most—became clear and compelling after his family was hit by a mental health issue. In this interview, Jonathan shares raw, unconventional wisdom about the advantages of bootstrapping and exiting in stages, and how painful personal challenges gave him a new purpose and source of fulfillment. _____________________________________________________ TIME STAMPS: 00:00: Introduction 01:00 Transition after selling the company 01:20: Jonathan's unconventional wisdom 02:08: Jonathan's previous careers 03:06: Motivation for starting a new business 03:53: Challenges faced in hierarchical systems 04:44: Importance of money in decisions 05:47: Founding a data business 06:44: Challenges in raising money 08:24: Misconceptions about data 10:03: Advantages of bootstrapping 11:14: Financial challenges and salaries 14:53: Impact of minority exit in 2016 17:02: Reasons for full business exit 18:12: Dividend checks and responsibility 19:04: Working with private equity firms 21:04: Importance of choosing the right partner 22:10: Reflections on Exiting During COVID 23:00: Health Issues and Impact on Business 24:03: Regrets and Decisions on Exiting 25:10: Continuing Involvement Post-Exit 26:14: Merging with a US Company 27:02: Adjusting to Life After Business 28:32: Personal and Family Focus Post-Retirement 30:26: Supporting Academic Research and Mental Health 31:29: Motivation of Wealth Training for Children 35:17: Disinterest in Material Possessions 38:13: Sources of Fulfillment and Life Satisfaction 41:47: Outdoor Activities and Personal Well-being 42:00: Processing Life's Experiences into Wisdom 45:36: Small experiences of delight 46:12: Caring for employees through share options 46:50: Satisfaction from contributing to others' happiness 47:08: Reflection on being remembered 48:04: Conclusion and gratitude