Marc O. Stockli shares the untold truths behind boardrooms, exits, and ego. With over 200 board meetings under his belt and an eight-figure acquisition behind him, Marc breaks down why most founders misunderstand the role of a board—and how to turn it into your unfair advantage.

Key Discussion Points:

Why boardrooms are broken—and how to fix them

The day 9/11 shaped his lifelong obsession with boards

What every founder gets wrong about advisors and governance

How to recruit high-level board members even if “you’re a nobody”

When to reject VC money (and why most founders give up control too early)

The true cost of a bad board—and the hidden benefit of starting early

Behind the scenes of a failed exit… and the Ponzi scheme that almost derailed everything

What founders must do today to prepare for a successful exit tomorrow

Takeaways:

A board's job isn’t control—it’s “support and challenge”

Information asymmetry kills board effectiveness—solve it with proximity and culture

Founders with integrity, humility, and curiosity attract the best board talent

If you're not ready to spar, you're not ready for a board

Closing Thoughts:
This episode is a masterclass in long-game thinking. Whether you’re pre-seed or post-exit, Marc’s wisdom reframes the way you see leadership, advisors, and your own ego. Bookmark it. Study it. Revisit it before your next big decision.