In this episode, we sit down with Brad Feld and Amy Batchelor, the authors of "The Start-Up Life," to discuss the often-overlooked challenges entrepreneurs and their partners face. They share insights on how to maintain a healthy relationship and personal well-being while navigating the demanding world of startups. From the difference between external perceptions and reality, to aligning the rhythm of business and personal life, Brad and Amy offer practical advice for founders and their loved ones to thrive together.

Key takeaways from today's episode:

• Acknowledge the discrepancy between the glamorized image of startup life and the actual day-to-day challenges. Openly communicate and set realistic expectations with your partner.
• Mind the “integrity gap.” Amy and Brad almost got divorced because he would say one thing but then go do another. They share how to get back in integrity with one another and restore that broken trust.
• Plus 1 minus 5: The math of relationships means that every positive action counts as +1 but every negative action counts as -5. We need to be mindful of all the little actions we take in our relationship to ensure that it thrives, and that is especially about the little moments of kindness and respect.
• Don't let the rhythms and demands of entrepreneurship override your relationship. Brad shares his commitment to always answer the phone when Amy calls, no matter what the context, along with other tactics to ensure his actions and priorities align with his commitment to Amy.
• The importance of investing in your personal well-being through therapy, coaching, and a commitment to self-improvement.
• Entrepreneurial mental health and wellness should be a priority, not an afterthought. Seek support and resources to maintain a healthy mindset.

The Business of US is brought to you by Jamie Born and Cameron Madill. Music is provided by our friends at Marmoset, and our theme song is “Kenton” by Dr Crosby.

We always love hearing from our audience what you would like to listen to next; please drop us a line at [email protected] to share what’s on your mind.

Until the next time, we wish you the best of luck in making your relationship intentional and remarkable.