Startup Battles Evolve: Former Employees Challenge Mentors in Emerging 'Kuhnian Revolutions'

A recent tweet by Oscar Hong, a prominent figure with experience at Plaid and Freestyle VC, has sparked considerable discussion within the startup ecosystem, positing that the most compelling industry conflicts are shifting from traditional incumbent-versus-challenger dynamics to a "teacher versus student" paradigm. Hong suggests that startups founded by former employees, or "students," are increasingly engaging in battles with their previous employers, the "teachers," potentially ushering in a "Kuhnian revolution."

"The most interesting startup battles are not btw incumbent v. challenger, but btw startups founded by the teachers vs. the students. Can the student surpass the teacher? Watch as a Kuhnian revolution unfolds," Oscar Hong stated in his tweet.

This observation highlights a growing trend where individuals, after gaining invaluable experience and insights within established companies, venture out to create their own enterprises. These spin-off ventures often leverage their intimate understanding of market gaps, technological advancements, or operational inefficiencies within their former company's domain, positioning them to challenge the very foundations laid by their mentors. This dynamic is fueled by a deep knowledge of the industry combined with the agility and fresh perspective of a new startup.

The reference to a "Kuhnian revolution" draws from Thomas Kuhn's theory of scientific paradigm shifts, implying that these internal rivalries could fundamentally alter industry norms and dominant business models. Instead of incremental improvements, these contests could introduce entirely new ways of thinking and operating, where the "student's" innovative approach and adaptability overcome the "teacher's" established, yet potentially rigid, frameworks. Such shifts are characterized by a complete re-evaluation of foundational assumptions, leading to a new dominant paradigm.

This phenomenon is not entirely new, with numerous successful spin-offs historically emerging to challenge their predecessors. However, Hong's tweet suggests an intensification of this dynamic, positioning these "teacher vs. student" battles as the critical battlegrounds for future innovation and market leadership. The outcome of these contests could redefine competitive landscapes, demonstrating whether the agility and novel perspectives of former employees can indeed surpass the resources and established market positions of their one-time mentors.