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Jean Middleton's avatar

The identity crisis isn’t just about what role you play — it’s about whether the person who built this is the same one who can lead what it’s becoming. Most founders find out the hard way that these are two different people.

Gary Palin's avatar

Thank you, Jean. This is a sharp way to frame it.

The identity crisis isn’t just about changing roles. It’s about realizing that the founder who built the company may not be the same person best suited to lead what it’s becoming.

That realization is one of the hardest parts of scaling. Many founders resist it, which is why so many get stuck in the painful transition stage.

Have you seen this strongly in your own journey or with other founders?

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Jul 19
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Gary Palin's avatar

Thank you! Glad it resonated.

Which part hit home the most for you?