My startup was acquired and it was fucking hell. Next time I get acquired I'll make sure to have everything in writing and planned for me to get out within one year.
I think that’s a pretty reasonable plan, and I would do the same. I don’t want to end up with a large stake in something I don’t have a corresponding level of control over. Sticking around to hand things over smoothly makes a ton of sense, but transitioning from founder to middle manager at your acquirer is a nightmare (depending on your personality).
That’s a very good takeaway. I’m curious how you ended up being acquired without having everything in writing, and what hell ensued, can you share the story?