In this episode of the Taking the Lead podcast, Kristen Habacht, President and COO of Shogun, shares her journey from being an office manager to a top executive in a tech company. She discusses the challenges of rapid growth in startups, emphasizing the need for a solid foundation before accelerating. Habacht advises against hasty hiring decisions, suggesting a detailed analysis to ensure the company is ready for expansion. She also talks about the constant changes in startups and the need for quick adaptation. Habacht highlights the importance of a sales-assisted approach in product-led growth (PLG) companies, explaining that it focuses on the value of a customer. She shares insights on hiring the right people to supplement PLG, the significance of looking at the mix of compensation to base, and her preference for six-month compensation plans for flexibility. The episode provides valuable insights for those navigating the fast-paced startup environment.