This Startup Founder Was Too Intense—How They Learned to Stop Taking Themselves So Seriously

Austin Hay, co-founder of Clarify, shares candid insights into his journey as a startup leader.

From navigating a messy exit to overcoming personal loss, Austin reflects on the experiences that have shaped him both professionally and personally.

Austin opens up about:

• His struggles with taking work too seriously and learning to balance ambition with self-care
• Navigating bereavement while managing a demanding role
• Building resilience through challenging career transitions

Things to listen for:

(00:00) Taking everything way too seriously

(06:27) Growing up as an academic nerd and entrepreneurial roots

(15:22) Lessons from leaving a startup the wrong way

(25:50) Coping with personal loss while working in high-pressure environments

(30:14) Thanks to our sponsors for this episode, Navattic & Appcues

(31:56) Redefining success and finding balance in his professional journey

(41:47) Advice for founders on balancing ambition with well-being

This episode is presented by:

Navattic: Interactive Product Demo Software - https://navattic.com/value

Appcues: User Engagement for SaaS - https://appcues.com/value

Connect with Austin:

LinkedIn: Austin Hay

Clarify: https://getclarify.ai/

Connect with Andrew:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcapland/

Substack: https://media.deliveringvalue.co

Hire Andrew as your coach: https://deliveringvalue.co/coaching