This startup founder says he works 7 days a week, keeps a mattress in the office, and sleeps 3 hours a night (www.businessinsider.com)

Nico Laqua, co-founder of the AI insurance startup Corgi, has made headlines for his extreme work habits, claiming to work seven days a week while sleeping only three to four hours a night. Laqua's dedication has propelled Corgi to remarkable heights, raising a Series B1 round that valued the company at $2.6 billion just weeks after its previous $1.3 billion valuation. This intense grind culture aligns with a growing trend in the tech industry where founders are prioritizing their startups above personal well-being, often leaving little room for a work-life balance. Laqua's commitment is not just personal; it reflects a broader mentality among startup founders in San Francisco, many of whom are adopting a "996" work schedule. While he acknowledges that employees can take days off, he emphasizes a work culture devoid of traditional weekends, suggesting that productivity can soar when teams are always engaged. This mindset has led to a strong sense of identity within Corgi, exemplified by Laqua's remark that two-thirds of their early team members have tattooed the Corgi logo, illustrating the deep connection and commitment his team has towards the brand. Such extreme dedication raises questions about the sustainability of this approach and its potential implications for employee burnout in the fast-evolving AI landscape.