Founder Life

The Conversation Every Cofounder Pair Avoids

Equity, roles, and what happens if it falls apart. The talk nobody wants is the one that saves the company.

Most cofounder breakups trace back to a conversation that never happened. Splits, expectations, and exit terms get left vague because the early days are all optimism.

Vagueness is comfortable right up until it is catastrophic. When something goes wrong, the absence of an agreement becomes the fight.

The fix is unglamorous: have the awkward conversation while everyone still likes each other.

What to Write Down

Equity split, vesting, decision rights, and what happens if someone leaves. Put it in writing.

A document made in good times is the cheapest insurance a founding team can buy.