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Transcript

Think CEO life is easy? Here's what they're really dealing with

There’s a myth we all buy into—especially in tech. That once you become a CEO, you gain control. Influence. Clarity. Maybe even a little luxury.

But talk to any founder at an early- or mid-stage startup and you’ll hear a very different story. In this episode, we break that story wide open.

This isn’t about glamorizing the grind. It’s about being honest about what the role really involves. Because being a CEO is less about calling the shots and more about constantly reacting to chaos. You're the salesperson, the firefighter, the decision-maker—and sometimes, the emotional shock absorber for the whole company.

We dig into:

  • Why CEOs often feel like they have less control as the company grows, not more.

  • What no one tells you about fundraising, internal storytelling, and always needing to “sell the dream”.

  • The mental gymnastics it takes to be the calm face in front of a team, even when everything feels like it’s breaking.

  • How decision fatigue, imposter syndrome, and constant tradeoffs wear down even the best leaders.

  • Why most startup founders are figuring it out in real time—with no playbook and no safety net.

Main takeaways:

  • The job of a CEO is absorbing uncertainty—and shielding the team from it.

  • Founders don’t have all the answers. They’re making bets and hoping they’re right.

  • Selling isn’t just external. CEOs are constantly selling—to investors, recruits, customers, and their own team.

  • Burnout, isolation, and doubt are more common in the CEO role than most people realize.

  • If you work for a founder, understanding their reality helps you do a better job too (and maybe helps you with a promotion down the line as well).


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