Founder Mode - 14 May 2025

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Hi there,

This week, I found myself replaying a powerful conversation between Stripe’s Patrick Collison and Jony Ive. It’s a rare peek into how two world-class builders think about craft, clarity, and what actually lasts.

I’ve also pulled together some sharp reads, high-stakes competitions, and a tool that might just change how you launch. Hope it sparks something for you.

🔥 Top Finds

Why Most Startups Fail
This essay cuts deep into the real reason startups fail—and it’s not what most pitch decks talk about. This thought-provoking read explores why idea and execution isn’t enough

YC Request for Startups Summer 2025: AI Agents
The YC application deadline may have passed, but this call for startups offers a great window into what kinds of solutions investors are eager to fund. Exciting times ahead for AI founders.

A Conversation with Jony Ive
An impactful conversation between Stripe CEO Patrick Collison and Sir Jony Ive. They explore the intersection of technology, design, and enduring innovation.

🎯 Startup Opportunities

🛠 Tool of the Week

bolt.new
One of the tools making vibecoding possible. Helps you launch full-stack apps insanely fast—with built-in auth, payments, and user dashboards out of the box. It’s perfect for testing ideas or spinning up internal tools without touching backend code.

They’re also running what might be the world’s largest hackathon right now, with over $1M in prizes and credits up for grabs. If you’ve got a half-baked idea or just want an excuse to build, this is a solid one.

Do you feel AI moving too fast and want to keep up top of all the latest development in AI?

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💬 Founder Mode Quotes

🙂 Fun Mode

👋  Want to share something or partner?

Got a tip, cool tool, or collab idea? Hit reply and drop it in my inbox. Your note can be as quick as a meme or as deep as a pitch deck. Either way, I read every email.

If this newsletter sparked an “aha,” pass it along to another builder who should be in Founder Mode. Sharing is free and motivates me to help bring you the best finds every week.

- Ray