Dana is fighting with their co-founder—coaching call transcript

Setting: A coaching session between Dana, the co-founder of a seed-stage startup, and their coach.

Dana: [frustrated] I’m at my wits’ end. My co-founder and I are constantly clashing over priorities. It feels like we’re always on edge, and when stress hits, we just end up taking it out on each other.

Coach: That sounds really challenging. It’s common for co-founders to face conflict, especially in the high-pressure environment of a startup. Can you tell me more about what specific issues are causing these conflicts?

Dana: We can’t seem to agree on what our top priorities should be. I think we should focus on product development to get our MVP out, but my co-founder believes we need to ramp up our marketing efforts first. When we discuss it, I feel like we both get defensive, and the conversation quickly spirals into frustration.

Coach: I understand how that can be stressful. It sounds like there’s a fundamental misalignment on your goals. Have you both had an open discussion about why each of you feels so strongly about your respective priorities?

Dana: Not really. We’ve tried, but it always ends up being a heated debate. I think we both want what’s best for the company, but when we’re stressed, we stop listening and just defend our positions.

Coach: That’s a common dynamic in high-stakes situations. It might help to approach the conversation differently. But before we dive into that, let’s take a moment to pause. Can you take a deep breath with me? [Both inhale deeply and exhale]

Dana: [pausing] Okay, I’m with you.

Coach: Great. Now, I want you to take a moment to visualize how you want this conversation to go. Imagine stepping into your co-founder’s shoes. What do you think their priorities are, and why do they feel that way?

Dana: [thinking] Well, I guess I can see why they’re focused on marketing. We need to get our brand out there to attract users, but I still feel like product development is crucial right now.

Coach: Acknowledging their perspective is key. What do you think is motivating your co-founder to prioritize marketing?

Dana: They’ve always been really passionate about building a strong brand. I think they’re worried about us losing momentum if we don’t start getting users in the door soon.

Coach: That’s an important insight. Now that you have this understanding, how can you frame your conversation with your co-founder to express your perspective while also addressing their concerns?

Dana: I could start by acknowledging their priorities and then explain why I think product development is critical. Maybe I can suggest a compromise that allows us to work on both fronts simultaneously.

Coach: That sounds like a solid plan! Establishing common ground can help both of you feel validated. How do you feel about setting up a structured approach to this conversation, perhaps by using a framework like the Eisenhower Matrix to discuss and align on your priorities?

Dana: That could really help! If we both lay out our priorities, we can see how they fit into the bigger picture and make better decisions together.

Coach: Absolutely! And don’t forget to schedule regular check-ins moving forward to prevent these issues from escalating again. How are you feeling about approaching this conversation now?

Dana: I’m feeling more hopeful. I think stepping into their shoes really helped me see things differently. Thanks for guiding me through it.

Coach: Of course, I’m here to support you in navigating these challenges. Let’s check in next week to see how your conversation goes and make any necessary adjustments.