"AI changes execution speed, but the core founder traits still look the same."
Grit, curiosity, honesty and problem obsession — the rubric hasn't moved. What's changed is how quickly weak founders are exposed.
SMShannon McClenaghanInvestor · StartX"AI changes execution speed, but the core founder traits still look the same."
Grit, curiosity, honesty and problem obsession — the rubric hasn't moved. What's changed is how quickly weak founders are exposed.
SMShannon McClenaghanInvestor · StartXFrom the event
Stanford Founders Demo Day · May 7, 2026 · Hosted by Sophie Ren
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