Running Y Combinator Like a Founder | Garry Tan

In this interview, Jack speaks with Garry Tan, who is two years into running YC (Y Combinator). Garry discusses his approach to leading YC with a founder's mentality, emphasizing zero-based accounting and pruning initiatives that don't contribute to YC's core mission. They explore YC's evolution, touching on past expansionary efforts and the importance of recentering on core values. Garry shares insights on attracting diverse and talented founders, the role of YC partners as advisors, and navigating the lean versus fat startup dichotomy. The conversation shifts to the impact of AI on startups, the potential for vertical AI software, and the rise of compound startups. Finally, Garry discusses his involvement in local politics, his motivations for addressing issues in San Francisco, and his vision for the city's future.