Founders

I think taking VC money is fine. There are many valid perspectives, but mine is: "You have to take care of your people."

My team needs certainty and stability, like paying for health insurance and life away from work. Everything else is second. 

Bootstrapping is romantic, but sadly doesn't apply equally.

Do you feel like it’s easier to attract talent when you’re VC backed?

Money is a prerequisite to great workers. Pay people what they are worth. Full stop.

To the direct point: I don't have non-VC backed experience.

Makes sense. I’ve only ever raised private so always curious what it’s like inside those big VC-oriented firms

It's branding, so helps with reach, but doesn't close the deal.