What to know

  • Julie Wainwright, founder of The RealReal, has released a memoir titled 'Time to Get Real'.
  • She openly discusses her unexpected removal from The RealReal by board members she once supported.
  • The memoir offers honest reflections on leadership, mistakes, and actionable advice for entrepreneurs.
  • Wainwright is now working on a new nutrition startup called Ahara.

Julie Wainwright, who founded The RealReal and previously took two companies public, has published a memoir called 'Time to Get Real'. In the book, she shares her personal journey, including the challenges and setbacks she faced as a leader.

Wainwright describes her sudden ousting from The RealReal by board members she had previously endorsed. She names those involved and explains her perspective on the power dynamics at play. Wainwright says that no founder ever wants to admit they should be removed, and she remains candid about her frustration with the experience. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, stating that she always addresses disagreements and acknowledges her own mistakes when necessary.

The memoir stands out for its straightforward look at the realities of leadership. Wainwright provides not only personal stories but also practical advice. She details her approach to staff bonuses and shares a leadership-evaluation framework she learned from McKinsey executives. She admits to hiring a "dumb aggressive" executive, someone whose need to dominate overshadowed their actual abilities, and uses this as a lesson for other leaders.

Wainwright wrote the memoir to give entrepreneurs a realistic perspective on building companies. She hopes her experiences will inspire others and help them avoid similar mistakes. The book also touches on the negative media attention she received, especially after the closure of her previous company, Pets.com.

Looking ahead, Wainwright is not stepping away from entrepreneurship. She is now focused on Ahara, a nutrition company that aims to provide personalized dietary recommendations based on genetics and individual needs.

Wainwright's memoir offers a blend of personal reflection and practical guidance, making it a resource for anyone interested in the true challenges of leadership and company building.

Via: TechCrunch