Michael and Dalton introduce the topic of caring about customers, and they emphasize the oddity when startups don't prioritize this.

• Michael Seibel introduces himself and Dalton Caldwell.
• They discuss a surprising question: Do you actually like your customers?
• The idea that caring about customers is essential is presented as a unique and unexpected approach.

Startups often flail in customer acquisition, using aggressive and impersonal tactics.

• Startups sometimes use forceful strategies to push their product onto customers.
• Founders may not understand why customers are not embracing their product eagerly.
• There's a tendency to use mass emails and other spammy techniques in hopes of gaining sales.

Startups fail in sales due to a lack of genuine connection and understanding of customers.

• Founders sometimes overlook the importance of having a sincere interest in their customers.
• There's a habit of founders to send out emails that they themselves would disregard.
• The conversation shifts to why startups emulate big companies and their detachment from customers.

Examples of how large corporations like Comcast and Facebook have a notorious reputation for poor customer relations.

• Large companies such as Comcast and social media giants show patterns of disliking their customers.
• These companies often engage in practices that are user-hostile and prioritize profits over customer satisfaction.

Dalton and Michael discuss the surprising power of simply liking your users and the positive impact it can have.

• Startups should not only build for their users but should genuinely like them.
• Liking users can translate into better understanding and serving their needs.
• This approach can differentiate a startup from larger companies that may not show the same level of care.

Caring genuinely about customers is highlighted as a startup's secret weapon for success.

• Founders need to avoid the trap of emulating impersonal big business practices.
• Caring about customers can lead to unique, memorable experiences that foster loyalty and growth.
• Personal interaction with customers, even at the founder level, can be a major competitive advantage.

Dalton and Michael share personal anecdotes where companies showed exceptional customer care, leaving a lasting positive impression.

• Michael shares his experience with Stripe's founder, which left him feeling more loyal to the company.
• Dalton recalls a moment when Amazon AWS provided direct support, enhancing his view of the company.

The conversation concludes with a reflection on the misguided tendency to emulate big companies rather than focusing on real customer care.

• Startups should resist the urge to copy the detached practices of large companies.
• Caring about customers and solving their problems should be the primary goal, not just raising VC dollars.
• Dalton and Michael emphasize the importance of customer care for startups' success.