1. Describe the problem:
I am a startup founder. My problem is periodic emotional burnout and a certain loneliness on this journey, especially when a project requires a long time and a huge amount of effort to get it off the ground to the first tangible results (on average, this takes 2-3 years).
During the "low points" (once every few months), there is no one to honestly and kindly discuss fear, uncertainty, difficulties, or failure with, without judgment. And at the same time, to get real emotional support to avoid abandoning my project, especially if it is promising.
I don't want to bother my wife and loved ones too much either, and my non-startup friends don't really understand my "pains." Existing communities and mentors solve business problems but don't provide the psychological support of a "brother in arms." I would like to have some kind of safe space for regular group calls where one can vent and get support from other founders.
Perhaps the solution should involve some sort of AI moderator that would facilitate the meetings and guide the entire group for the desired effect, and at the end of the meeting provide useful recommendations and assess the match between group participants.
During the "low points" (once every few months), there is no one to honestly and kindly discuss fear, uncertainty, difficulties, or failure with, without judgment. And at the same time, to get real emotional support to avoid abandoning my project, especially if it is promising.
I don't want to bother my wife and loved ones too much either, and my non-startup friends don't really understand my "pains." Existing communities and mentors solve business problems but don't provide the psychological support of a "brother in arms." I would like to have some kind of safe space for regular group calls where one can vent and get support from other founders.
Perhaps the solution should involve some sort of AI moderator that would facilitate the meetings and guide the entire group for the desired effect, and at the end of the meeting provide useful recommendations and assess the match between group participants.
2. How often does the problem occur?
Cyclically, once every 2-3 months, during times of pressure, lack of energy, failures, or making difficult decisions. This is a systemic problem that many write about (Paul Graham, etc.) but which remains unsolved.
3. What attempts have you made to solve the problem?
I tried seeking understanding in general chats and at meetups — lacked depth and trust. Individual therapy for founders is expensive and doesn't provide a sense of "team." Mastermind groups often turn into competitions. I periodically watch YouTube videos with other founders' experiences, but there's no feedback or personalization. AI psychologists don't help; they lack the empathy of real people, the feeling is mediocre.
4. How much are you willing to pay for the solution?
Honestly, it's difficult for me to say exactly how much I'm willing to pay right now, because I'd like to "try out" the solution and understand its value for me, especially during tough periods. But let's assume it would be some kind of membership fee per session, around $10-20/session. I'm willing to pay for a structured group session, possibly with an AI moderator that would facilitate the meetings and guide the entire group for the desired effect, and at the end of the meeting provide useful recommendations and assess the match between participants.
5. Problem author:
The author of this problem has indicated that they are ready to provide feedback to the developers and want to receive 1% equity in the startup that will build a ready-made solution. You can contact the author directly via the contacts above.