In this episode, Chris Heivly challenges one of the most persistent myths in startup community building: that a single unicorn can transform an entire ecosystem.

He unpacks why chasing breakout companies is not just unrealistic, but actively harmful. A unicorn focused strategy narrows attention, sidelines early stage founders, and poisons the aspirational stack that healthy communities depend on.

Instead, Chris makes the case for a different approach. One rooted in volume, connection, and long term participation. By supporting founders at every stage and planting many seeds instead of betting on one outcome, communities create the conditions where real momentum compounds over time.

This episode is a reminder that unicorns do not build communities. Communities build companies. And the work that matters most happens well before the headlines.

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In this episode, Chris Heivly digs into how founders quietly shape one another’s belief and momentum. He looks at the way confidence builds when you see someone just a step or two ahead and realize their progress is within reach.

He also reflects on why openness matters in a community. When people share what they are learning instead of only their wins, it creates a clearer picture of what the journey actually looks like.

Ultimately, this episode is about how simple, human interactions help startup communities grow. It is a reminder that the right examples, shared at the right time, can change how someone moves forward.

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In this episode of Your Startup Community, Chris Heivly explores why mentorship is one of the most influential forces in any startup community. He breaks down how true mentorship works in practice and why it is more about trust, consistency, and honest connection than formal structures or titles. Chris also explains why great mentorship benefits both sides and how it strengthens the relationships that hold a community together.

He offers a look at the common misconceptions founders and mentors bring into the process and highlights what makes mentorship meaningful, accessible, and impactful. From vulnerability to shared experiences to showing up when it matters, Chris outlines the simple behaviors that help communities grow stronger.

If you are building, mentoring, or supporting founders, this episode will give you a grounded perspective on why mentorship matters and how to approach it with intention.

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