US Startup Co‑Founder Faces Backlash After Bragging About 31 Weekend Meetings
A US startup co‑founder sparked outrage after proudly sharing that he collapsed during a weekend of 31 back‑to‑back meetings. Critics say such posts glorify toxic hustle culture and undermine work‑life balance
Emilio Van Cotthem, co-founder of Subscription Intern, an internship platform, posted on LinkedIn about how he had 31 meetings over the weekend and collapsed from exhaustion. (Picture credit: LinkedIn)
US Entrepreneur Slammed for Celebrating Burnout After Collapsing Over 31 Weekend Meetings
An Atlanta‑based startup co‑founder, Emilio Van Cotthem, posted a screenshot on LinkedIn revealing 31 meetings over a single weekend, joking that he “collapsed” but wasn’t quitting. “Work‑life balance? I’ll deal with that later—after I win,” he asserted, invoking Steve Jobs as a benchmark for nonstop hustle.
Public Reaction
His post went viral, triggering widespread criticism for promoting toxic overwork culture. Social media users slammed the glorification of burnout:
“Bro this ain’t something to celebrate … was it worth it if it ends with a stroke or heart attack?”
“The only thing you’re winning at is being the biggest pain in the a** in those people’s lives.”
“That’s not hustle—it’s pathology.”
Reddit’s r/LinkedInLunatics forum chimed in harshly:
“Meetings like that don’t make you effective. Quite the opposite.”
“Seems like he’s using meetings as an excuse to avoid actual work.”
When criticism surged, Van Cotthem doubled down—posting another screenshot of an even fuller calendar and defending the “madness,” claiming it led to high sales conversions, customer satisfaction, and personal fulfillment.
Broader Ecosystem: The Rise of Hustle Culture
This controversy reflects a wider tech and startup trend toward glorifying hustle, where leaders boast of 60–100 hour workweeks for “mastery” and growth. Research shows such hours often yield diminishing returns and fuel burnout.
Critics argue this culture neglects health, diversity, and sustainable business practices, disproportionately impacting women, caregivers, and people with chronic health conditions.
Why It Matters
Over-crowded schedules often reduce real productivity, increasing inefficiency and mental strain.
Persistent overwork increases risk of burnout, stress-related physical health issues, and early life crises.
The cultural glorification of burnout can deter talent and hinder retention, especially as younger generations prioritize well-being over nonstop grind.
