The Founder Hard Reset

The Founder Hard Reset

From Startup Therapy by Startups.com

November 25, 2025 · 26 min · Episode 321

About this episode

This episode discusses the inevitability of burnout for founders and offers insights on how to recover sustainably beyond quick fixes like vacations.

Ever felt like vacations just aren't cutting it when it comes to startup burnout? In this episode, Ryan Rutan and Will Schroter dive deep into why burnout is inevitable for founders and how quick fixes like vacations often fail to address the root of the issue. They explore how to truly recover and maintain that all-important spark in your work. Learn why it's crucial to inventory what drains and fuels your energy, and how making meaningful changes—not just taking time off—can lead to sustainable recovery. Real-life examples and practical advice make this a must-listen for any founder feeling the grind. Resources: Startup Therapy Podcast https://www.startups.com/community/startup-therapy Website https://www.startups.com/begin LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/startups-co/ Join our Network of Top Founders Wil Schroter https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilschroter/ Ryan Rutan https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-rutan/ What to listen for: 00:34 The Misconception of Business Success and Burnout 01:00 Personal Stories of Burnout 02:10 The Ineffectiveness of Vacations 03:49 The Importance of Meaning in Work 04:11 Personal Struggles with Burnout 07:27 The Real Cause of Burnout 10:23…

People in this episode

Hosts: Ryan Rutan, Will Schroter, Wil Schroter

Topics covered

  • startup burnout
  • founder recovery
  • energy management
  • work-life balance
  • meaning in work
  • practical advice for founders

Keywords

  • burnout
  • founders
  • vacations
  • energy
  • work
  • recovery
  • startup

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Startups.com, Startup Therapy Podcast, LinkedIn

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