In an inspiring session at TechCrunch All Stage 2025, Dr. David H. Rosmarin, a renowned professor from Harvard Medical School, shared groundbreaking insights on how startup founders can transform anxiety into a powerful asset. The event, held in Boston on July 15, brought together 1,200 founders and venture capitalists to discuss actionable strategies for scaling startups.
Dr. Rosmarin, an expert in mental health and anxiety management, emphasized that the high-pressure environment of startups often breeds significant emotional challenges. He noted that constant decision-making and unpredictable pivots can take a toll, but with the right mindset, founders can harness anxiety to fuel innovation and resilience.
During his talk, he introduced a founder-focused approach to managing anxiety, blending psychological tools with practical applications tailored to the entrepreneurial journey. Attendees learned techniques to reframe stress as a motivator, a concept Rosmarin believes is critical for sustaining long-term success in the startup ecosystem.
“Anxiety doesn’t have to be a barrier; it can be a competitive advantage,” Rosmarin stated, encouraging founders to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth. He provided actionable steps, such as mindfulness practices and cognitive reframing, to help leaders navigate the emotional swings of building a business.
The session resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom face the daily grind of uncertainty in their ventures. Rosmarin’s insights offered a fresh perspective on mental health, aligning with TechCrunch All Stage’s mission to support founders at every stage of their journey through practical insights and meaningful connections.
For those who missed the event, recordings and additional resources from Dr. Rosmarin’s session will be available through the TechCrunch platform. This session is a must-watch for any founder seeking to turn personal challenges into professional triumphs with a strategic mindset.
Maria Lourdes
