Dalton + Michael

What to do if you are struggling to find a unique startup idea #startups #podcast

Michael on how to pursue startups when you struggle to generate ideas.

MIMichaelhostDADaltonhost

Mar 23, 2026·1m·Watch on YouTube ↗

📖 CHAPTERS

1. 1

   Are you actually meant for the startup path?

   Michael frames a common internal question for viewers: whether the startup world is the right fit for them. He notes that even in an exciting tech moment, entrepreneurship isn’t a universal match.

2. 2

   Separating 'startup interest' from 'idea person' identity

   The conversation narrows to a specific pressure point: feeling like you must be the one who generates the unique idea. Michael emphasizes that not everyone is cut out to be the ideator, and that’s normal.

3. 3

   Encouragement without gatekeeping

   Dalton is careful not to discourage people from pursuing their dream, emphasizing the intent to help rather than make viewers doubt themselves. He acknowledges that struggling with unique ideas can be real and demoralizing.

4. 4

   A valid alternative: go work somewhere and still be in the game

   Dalton offers a straightforward option: it’s totally fine to work at a company if ideation is a major struggle. You can still participate in building meaningful products and be part of innovation without founding.

5. 5

   Not everyone needs to be a 'weird shaman' with strange ideas

   Dalton humorously reframes ideators as rare personality types and normalizes not being one. He adds that society wouldn’t function if everyone tried to operate like an eccentric idea machine.

6. 6

   Partner with someone who is 'weird' (complementary co-founders)

   Michael builds on Dalton’s point: if you’re not the idea person, work with someone who is. He suggests joining forces with an ideator so each person can contribute where they’re strongest.

7. 7

   Personal example: being “along for the ride” in ideation

   Michael shares that he personally wasn’t central to idea generation in his own experience. Dalton reinforces this with a playful anecdote about Michael not contributing to an eccentric concept, illustrating that’s a normal dynamic.

8. 8

   Core takeaway: you can love startups without being the idea generator

   They close by restating the main insight: interest in startups doesn’t require being the person who comes up with the idea. You can work at a company, join a team, or partner with an ideator and still thrive in the startup world.