That doesn't sound like a typical startup experience though. Typically it's the opposite: too many things to do and the deadlines are always too short.

This also sounds suspiciously similar to big tech...

This sounds suspiciously like all business everywhere.

Yup, and I WANTED the typical startup experience when I joined, so I left once I could see there wasn't much traction, plus a few more red flags.

I’ve lived this a couple times. I hate to be pessimistic, but it’s a really bad sign. The startups I’ve done that were successful were always running just at the edge of total meltdown because the business guys were hustling hard.

Heh, that's the diff between early stage and growth stage. Some people like going 0-1, others like riding what others have built.

Found as a solo! You are the business guy making partnerships, so if you have nothing to code it is no ones fault but your own!