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Y Combinator Cast

06/24/22

@ Y Combinator

As the war escalated, Stacy and Roman had to consider risks unfamiliar to most founders, constantly communicating with their team about potential threats and safety measures.

Video

Lessons From The Founders Scaling Their Startup In A War Zone

@ Y Combinator

Lessons From The Founders Scaling Their Startup In A War Zone

06/24/22

Related Takeaways

Y Combinator Cast

06/24/22

@ Y Combinator

The first days of the invasion were filled with panic and stress as many people struggled to accept the reality of the situation, making it challenging for Stacy and Roman to manage their team effectively.

Y Combinator Cast

06/24/22

@ Y Combinator

Having a pre-established emergency plan allowed Stacy and Roman to focus and execute their evacuation strategy step by step, which was crucial during the chaotic first month of the war.

Y Combinator Cast

06/24/22

@ Y Combinator

The emotional toll of the war became apparent for Stacy and Roman after the initial phase of intense activity, particularly when they were confronted with distressing images from the conflict.

Y Combinator Cast

06/24/22

@ Y Combinator

The founders of Awesomic, Stacy Pavlyshyna and Roman Sevast, experienced a drastic change in their lives as they transitioned from startup founders to survival coordinators amidst the war in Ukraine.

Y Combinator Cast

06/24/22

@ Y Combinator

Once we ensured basic safety for our team, we focused on growing our business and acquiring new designers and customers, even amidst the war.

a16z Cast

04/12/25

@ a16z

Founders in defense tech should embrace the challenges of building in high-stakes environments, as the mission of contributing to security and stability is worth the effort.

Y Combinator Cast

06/24/22

@ Y Combinator

On February 24th, when Russia attacked Ukraine, Stacy received a call from her mother urging her to evacuate, prompting the founders to initiate the evacuation of their team and themselves from Kyiv.

Y Combinator Cast

06/24/22

@ Y Combinator

Even while evacuating from Kyiv, Stacy and Roman witnessed the ongoing danger, including Russian helicopters flying overhead, highlighting that there was no safe place in Ukraine.

Sam Altman

05/02/17

@ Y Combinator

As companies grow, founders may face increased scrutiny and criticism. It's important to prepare for this shift in perception and manage the emotional impact it can have.