Great job on launching the private beta. It's a amazing switch from the previous communication play. Given most developers needs a platform to host lightweight web apps. Plus, there is a massive opportunity there to build the Heroku for mobile optimized site for mobile web or embed webviews.
Hiring/Firing is one of the most difficult thing for founders at early stage. I think trial type hiring is the key where dating before marriage is ESSENTIAL.
I have been talking about the importance of exercise with joel. You need to be able to operate at peak both mentally and physically if you want to have serious result in your startup.
I have been rejected twice previously (1st poorly prepared, 2nd late) as a single founder.
Given PG's selection is based on startup founder's likelihood of success. YC's harsh selection process have really shaped my vision of my product to attack the problem domain from a different angle. I think they will train better founders.
Now, I am applying YC this session (S11),
- Finally i find a cofounder that i have know for 2 years that have perfect match in value and skill sets.
- I spend much more time preparing the application
- Also exponential more time working on the real business assets (design, code, project plan)
I should Thank them for the harshness, it makes you becomes a stronger, better fighter !