When we announced the acquisition, I was worried the team would be upset, but instead, they cheered, which was a beautiful moment for me as a founder.

The emotional aspect of giving your company away is significant; it's like turning over your child to someone else, which can be a brutal experience for founders.

The emotional aspect of creating a company often involves a deep desire for respect and recognition from loved ones, which transcends financial success.

The decision to reject the offer was stressful, as many believed we should sell the company, and I realized I hadn't effectively communicated our mission to the team. Turning down Yahoo's billion dollar offer was painful because it led to a significant loss of trust within the company, resulting in many employees leaving due to a lack of belief in our vision.

The process of selling the company was very painful and arduous, especially since I had to maintain a double life and couldn't be transparent with my team during the acquisition process.

The emotional stakes are high for founders when their investors back competitors, as it can undermine their credibility and the trust of their team.

It's crucial to ensure that early employees feel a strong sense of ownership in the company, as they will play a significant role in its success.

Jeff Weiner's emotional connection with LinkedIn employees was evident during his farewell, showcasing the personal nature of business and the culture he cultivated at the company.

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.