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YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/06/23

@ Y Combinator

Don't make the investor your customer; many conformists in startups seek ideas that investors will like, aiming to please them instead of focusing on their own vision.

Video

The Cult of Conformity in Silicon Valley

@ Y Combinator

The Cult of Conformity in Silicon Valley

02/06/23

Related Takeaways

Michael Seibel

11/30/21

@ Y Combinator

Many founders mistakenly prioritize investors over customers, thinking they need to please investors to succeed, but the focus should be on solving customer problems instead.

Y Combinator Cast

12/17/21

@ Y Combinator

Smart founders recognize that investors have their own goals and incentives, and they should consider these when evaluating investment pitches instead of accepting them blindly.

Travis Kalanick

04/11/25

@ Peter H. Diamandis

Investors should focus on capital allocation rather than trying to be founder-friendly; the best investors are those who do the least harm to the founder's vision.

Dalton Caldwell

03/22/24

@ Y Combinator

Investors often respond to ideas that are popular or trending, which can mislead founders into thinking they should follow the crowd rather than pursue their own insights.

Y Combinator Cast

03/09/18

@ Y Combinator

Investors should maintain a supportive role, helping founders navigate challenges rather than prioritizing their own interests, which can lead to detrimental outcomes for the startup.

Dalton Caldwell

03/22/24

@ Y Combinator

Founders shouldn't adopt the mindset of venture capitalists, as it can lead to a misalignment with their true goals and passions.

Karri Saarinen

06/05/25

@ FirstRoundCapital

Startups often make the mistake of trying to emulate other companies; instead, they should do the opposite of what competitors are doing.

Kevin Hale

09/13/19

@ Y Combinator

A good investor will listen to your pitch and envision the potential success of your startup, rather than just poking holes in your idea.

Y Combinator Cast

05/18/24

@ Y Combinator

You should focus on creating something that people want rather than just trying to start a startup; this mindset is crucial for success.