The Revenge Founder
And other archetypes I like to back
Over the years, I’ve met and backed countless founders, and while every founder is unique, certain archetypes stand out. These aren’t cookie-cutter personalities or generic profiles; they’re types of people who bring a specific energy, grit, and vision to the table. Here are five founder archetypes I love to back, and why they inspire me:
The Revenge Founder
The Revenge Founder is someone who has already tried to solve a particular problem but failed—and now they’re back with a vengeance. They’re fueled by lessons learned the hard way and an unshakable belief that they can crack the code this time. Revenge Founders have something to prove, and their obsession with unfinished business often translates into relentless focus and execution. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone channel the pain of failure into a triumphant second act.
The Desperate Founder
Desperation gets a bad rap, but in the right context, it can be a superpower. The Desperate Founder isn’t just building for fun or to chase a trend—they need this to work. Maybe they’re supporting their family, trying to escape an impossible situation, or betting everything on this one chance at freedom. Their stakes are higher than most, and that creates a level of urgency and commitment that’s hard to replicate. When desperation is channeled into productive energy, it’s incredible to watch.
The Naive Expert
The Naive Expert is a fascinating paradox. They’ve spent enough time in their industry to know it inside and out, but they’re still naïve enough to believe it can be rebuilt from the ground up. This combination of expertise and innocence creates a unique mindset: they’re aware of the challenges but aren’t weighed down by the cynicism that traps many veterans. The Naive Expert brings fresh eyes and bold ideas to spaces that are overdue for reinvention.
Best Friends ‘Til the End
Some of the strongest teams I’ve seen come from close friends who decide to co-found a company together. The “Best Friends ‘Til the End” archetype isn’t just about shared history; it’s about a level of trust and commitment that’s hard to replicate. These founders are in it for each other as much as for the business. They’re less likely to implode under pressure because their relationship is built on a foundation of loyalty and mutual respect. It’s always inspiring to see that bond translate into the way they build.
The Masochist Founder
Startups are an endurance sport, and the Masochist Founder treats them as such. They don’t shy away from the grind—they thrive on it. For them, the struggle isn’t a bug; it’s a feature. Masochist Founders often have a rare combination of resilience and self-awareness, understanding that the suffering is part of the process. They’re not in it for quick wins; they’re here for the long, hard road, and they find joy in the journey.
These archetypes aren’t just personality traits—they’re reflections of the deeper motivations that drive people to build. Whether it’s revenge, desperation, curiosity, friendship, or sheer grit, these founders bring something special to the table. Backing them isn’t just about supporting their companies; it’s about believing in the raw humanity that fuels their dreams.
