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Re:Ask HN: How to deal with a dysfunctional relationship wit... by WaylonKenning on Monday May 07, 2018 @07:13PM (#17017267)
Outcomes and measures. These quantify your success.

Sounds like these outcomes are failing:

* Technical Issues Cleared * Deliver on requirements of existing customers * Understand complaints of existing customers * Strengthen relationship with existing customers * Retain talented staff * Strong leadership from leadership team (co-founders)

But these outcomes are succeeding:

* Successful brand awareness in market * Gain initial revenue from customers

So based on this, what outcomes are important? How do you measure their importance? And then what is their role in this? Obviously they're not happy with you either - the put downs, the lack of respect in conversations means there's some unresolved resentment from their end as well.

Personally, I'd recommend both parties write down their concerns, outcomes, and measures, and then with a mediator work through what's important. Contact me if you need a hand.

It's a bit like a marriage - it can be saved, but you both have to acknowledge your 50% in contributing to this situation.

Re:Ask HN: How to deal with a dysfunctional relationship wit... by throwaway9934 on Tuesday May 08, 2018 @09:01PM (#17026686)
This is really clear advice and thinking; thank you.

We had a positive interaction today, first in a long time. I took a lot of the advice on this board and the result was good. Hopefully we can make it continue at least in the short term.

Re:Ask HN: How to deal with a dysfunctional relationship wit... by staticautomatic on Monday May 07, 2018 @07:15PM (#17017275)
If what the OP wrote is true, then the "marriage" should not be saved. Anyone who acts the way the co-founder allegedly acts should be fired.