Speed, cost, and quality. As a founder, you must pick two. For a healthcare startup, Sam Kothari knew compromising quality was never an option. Sam, Co-Founder & COO of Everlab, unpacks how he builds fast 𝘢𝘯𝘥 sustainably, in conversation with Alex Dam, Notion’s APAC Startups Lead. From designing systems that scale with intention, to hiring humble generalists, and building a founder network that keeps you grounded, Sam shares what it really takes to grow. 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝗮𝗺: 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴-𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗺 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 → The most durable companies solve problems before they break - not after. Build systems that anticipate needs instead of reacting to them. 𝗛𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀 → In the early days, hire generalists who learn fast and stay curious. 𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗲 → Founders who ask for help move faster. Build networks early so you’re not solving every problem from scratch.
Hugo Gomes
1w
It’s interesting to see how so many approaches try to gain speed by piling on more layers, more tools, more models, as if a system could evolve simply by adding weight on top. But nothing grows in a meaningful way when its foundation is still built on yesterday’s assumptions. Intelligence doesn’t transform a system just because it’s added to it. Real change happens when the presence of intelligence forces the system to rethink how it understands itself. If the architecture is treated as a surface to decorate with technology rather than the place where technology finds its meaning, we end up confusing motion with progress. Some shifts only happen when the base structure changes. Everything else is movement without direction.
Yoganath V
1w
This newsletter is a breath of fresh air - thank you for spotlighting the real-life balances startup founders navigate with speed and quality. I loved how Sam’s principles show sustainable growth doesn’t mean rushing through important steps or sacrificing mission. Hiring humble generalists and asking for help are powerful reminders that building together is always faster and stronger. The actionable takeaway for any founder or team: invest effort in systems and culture early so you’re never solving the same problem twice. When leaders stay close to customers and treat quality as non-negotiable, businesses scale with trust and impact - no shortcuts needed. It’s encouraging to see AI and community both framed as engines for smarter, more connected progress. Thanks for sharing grounded, uplifting advice that will help so many founders stay true to their vision.
Anita Umoren
1w
I love how Notion keeps centering what actually matters which is building with intention, staying close to users, and designing systems that don’t fall apart when things scale. Sam’s point about building networks early and the new research template both show the same thing. You really can’t grow in isolation. And the reminder to never compromise on quality hits even harder in fast-moving spaces like tech and Web3. This stack is solid. What stood out most to you from this update?
This is awesome Alex Dam
Maxi Tommasi
5d
Go Alex!!
David Abizu
6d
📌
Cofounder at Everlab
1wThanks for the conversation Alex Dam !