By Sreya Rakshit | 10 November 2023
Ever so often, a TV show grabs hold of you in a way that’s unexpected. ‘The Morning Show’ on Apple TV+ has done that for me. With its authentic delve into the media world's tumult, I find myself reflecting not just on its narrative but the uncanny parallels to the world I’m now a part of - the rollercoaster of startups.
Age is Just a Number, Conviction is Key: Greta Lee's portrayal of Stella Bak teaches us a vital lesson: it's not about how old you are, but how firm your conviction is. Her age doesn't deter her journey, nor does it undermine her expertise. I've observed the same in the startup world. Young founders often must present their ideas to experienced venture capitalists and seasoned industry players. Stella’s journey underscores the significance of backing oneself, staying true to one's vision, and not being intimidated by the experience of the room.
Dealing with Scrutiny: Through Jennifer Aniston's character, Alex Levy, we see a life perpetually under the microscope. Every action, every decision, every misstep is analysed. In the startup world, particularly in the age of social media, this rings true. Every move by startups, their leaders, and their teams is scrutinised, which makes it even more essential to maintain a consistent brand image and stand firm under pressure.
Staying True to One's Essence: As I watched the latest episodes, a powerful message shone through: in the quest to be everything for everyone, there's a risk of losing oneself. I've seen startups, as they scale, struggling with this very issue. They try to cater to diverse stakeholders, often at the risk of becoming too generic. It’s crucial for them to evolve but equally important to remember what made them unique in the first place.
More Than Money: In the glittering world of startups, funds frequently dictate the pace. Jon Hamm's portrayal of Paul Marks highlights a lesson every founder must internalise - not every cheque written in your favour is worth cashing. Early-stage startups, though often pressed for funds, need to be discerning. The lure of capital can be overwhelming, but it's vital to remember that when an investor comes on board, you're not just accepting their money but also their influence, ethos, and vision. Opting for an investor should be less about their financial muscle and more about shared ethos and mutual long-term aspirations. It's akin to selecting a co-pilot for your startup journey; make sure they’re navigating towards the same destination.
Resilience Amidst Turbulence: Time and again, the characters of "The Morning Show" find themselves amidst storms – personal, professional, and often both. Yet, their ability to bounce back, to march forward despite setbacks, mirrors the tenacity required in the startup world. It's not about avoiding falls, but about rising every time, learning, and pushing forward with renewed vigour.
Trust as Currency: No matter the scene, setting, or character, an underlying theme resonated throughout the series: trust. This isn't a commodity; it's a necessity. Authenticity plays a pivotal role here. Especially in a venture world obsessed with numbers and valuations, it’s trust that emerges as the real game-changer. The startup ecosystem thrives on trust. Trust between co-founders, between startups and their customers, and between startups and their investors.
At the heart of 'The Morning Show' is a narrative not just about media, but about every professional journey - underscored by human ambition, tested by challenges, and defined by choices. As I wind up another week in the startup world, it’s these tales of perseverance and grit that remind me why we begin our ventures in the first place: to make an impact and tell a story worth remembering.