Why Cofounders Often Don't Last

<p>In today’s Startup Therapy Podcast, Wil and Ryan talk about cofounder breakup. Likened to marriage, having a cofounder requires commitment that comes with consequences when and if the Startup fails and coming up with an action plan when the business turns out to be a total flop. </p><p><br></p><p><strong>Sign up for the Startups Newsletter</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.startups.com/newsletter"><strong>https://www.startups.com/newsletter</strong></a></p><p><br></p><p><strong>Resources:</strong></p><ul> <li> <a href="https://www.startups.com/community/startup-therapy">Startup Therapy Podcast</a><strong> </strong> </li> <li><a href="https://www.startups.com/begin">https://www.startups.com/begin</a></li> <li>Join our <a href="https://www.startups.com/community/founder-groups">Network of Top Founders</a> </li> <li>Send an email to <a href="mailto:therapy@startups.com">therapy@startups.com</a> </li> </ul><p><br></p><p><strong>What to Listen For</strong></p><ul> <li>00:00 Intro</li> <li>00:33 Cofounders often don’t last</li> <li>02:07 Cofounders should talk about what to do when things doesn’t work out</li> <li>05:36 We make a binding contract with someone when the Startup longevity is uncertain</li> <li>06:57 Founders don’t consider what to do if and when cofounders leave</li> <li>09:16 Making a commitment at a time we know least about the outcome</li> <li>14:24 Assumptions you’re making about your cofounder</li> <li>21:10 Be prepared to deal with fundamentally different decision making</li> <li>25:48 Plan for divorce but hope for a successful marriage</li> <li>26:54 Start with a vesting agreement</li> <li>31:33 Sign a commitment that when not met has consequences</li> </ul>