In the world of startups, coachability is often cited as a crucial trait for founders, but it takes on a unique level of importance when working with a venture studio. Unlike traditional venture capital, where founders are often left to navigate challenges independently after receiving funding, venture studios operate as co-founders, providing hands-on support throughout the startup's journey. This close-knit collaboration means that a founder's ability to be coachable—open to feedback, willing to adapt, and eager to learn—is paramount to the startup's success.

Venture studios typically provide extensive resources, including access to seasoned entrepreneurs, in-house talent, and a robust network. This ecosystem is designed to accelerate growth, but only if the founder is willing to leverage these resources effectively. Studies have shown that startups created in venture studios achieve seed funding twice as fast and exit 33% quicker than those that go the traditional VC route. This rapid progress is largely attributed to the founder's ability to remain flexible and responsive to the studio's guidance, making coachability a critical factor​.

Furthermore, because venture studios are deeply involved in the startup's operations, they can test and iterate on ideas rapidly, making real-time adjustments based on market feedback. For this process to work, founders must be receptive to change and willing to pivot when necessary—qualities that are hallmarks of a coachable entrepreneur. In this environment, stubbornness or resistance to feedback can stall progress and diminish the startup's chances of success.

In contrast, traditional venture capital may place more emphasis on a founder's initial vision and ability to execute independently, making coachability somewhat less critical. However, in a venture studio, where the focus is on collaborative creation and constant iteration, coachability becomes not just important but essential for unlocking the full potential of the partnership.

For any founder considering the venture studio model, embracing coachability isn't just about personal growth—it's about maximizing the unique opportunities that this model offers to create value and accelerate success​.

Coachability Guidelines

Coachability Isn’t Just Agreeing

For Founders: Don’t fake being coachable just to please your venture studio team. Authenticity is key, and experienced mentors will see through insincerity. Avoid following every piece of advice without question. You’ve likely spent years developing expertise in your domain, so it’s important to trust your judgment as well. However, do actively seek out and thoughtfully consider the advice given to you. While you shouldn’t feel obligated to follow every suggestion to the letter, it's essential to give them careful consideration. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, clarify, and engage in a thoughtful discussion about the guidance you receive before deciding how to proceed.

For the Venture Studio Team: Don’t mistake agreement for coachability. Test the entrepreneur’s ability to tackle real challenges. Value the deep knowledge founders bring to the table and encourage them to seek your advice and critically assess it. It's essential for them to engage with the feedback rather than passively accept it.

Coachability Is a Two-Way Street

For Founders: Don’t focus solely on the resources or expertise a studio team offers. Think about the long-term relationship and whether this is a team you want in your corner for the journey ahead. It's crucial to ensure that the team's working style and goals align with yours. You should remain coachable without feeling pressured to comply with every demand from a particular coach.

For Studio Teams: Don’t adopt a rigid, uncompromising approach. Recognize that the founder is also evaluating your fit with them. It’s important to choose to work with teams of people you genuinely want to support, as the relationship should be mutually beneficial.

Every Coaching Relationship Is Unique

For both founders and venture studios, remember that each coaching relationship is unique and shaped by the personalities and circumstances involved. Don’t assume that what works in one situation will automatically work in another. Use the early stages of the relationship to explore compatibility, as it’s easier to part ways before significant commitments are made. Challenges will arise, but it’s important to work through them together with openness and honesty. The goal is to build a relationship that is both financially and emotionally rewarding.

If you're a founder and believe in the power of collaboration, let's connect. At Platform Venture Studio, we’re all about partnering with ambitious entrepreneurs who are ready to take their ideas to the next level. Whether you're looking for guidance, resources, or a hands-on partnership to bring your vision to life, reach out to me and learn how we can help you succeed. You may also directly apply here.

Let’s build something extraordinary!