In this conversation, with Michael Grinich - founder and CEO of WorkOS. WorkOS helps you start selling to enterprise customers with just a few lines of code.

We discuss the challenges and strategies of navigating tough conversations in a startup environment, the importance of understanding engineering leadership, and the role of empathy in user experience.

The conversation covers the significance of conferences for startups, the necessity of articulating the 'why' behind a business, and the challenges faced by solo founders. The discussion also touches on decision-making processes, handling competition, and the future direction of WorkOS.

• If a conversation scares you, it's probably necessary.
• Engineering leaders focus on business goals, not just technology.
• Conferences can be a great way to connect with potential customers.
• Building relationships at events can lead to long-term success.
• Frameworks can be constraining; focus on user empathy instead.
• Understanding user needs is crucial for product development.
• Articulating the 'why' can enhance customer connection.
• Maintaining focus on your mission is key to success.
• Finding a deeper mission can drive your startup forward.
• The journey of building a startup is often unclear at the beginning.

Links:

• WorkOS https://workos.com/
• Michael's Twitter https://x.com/grinich
• ELC https://sfelc.com/
• Crossing the Enterprise Chasm Podcast https://workos.com/podcast
• Start With Why https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/
• AWS reinvent https://reinvent.awsevents.com/