Shalom Lamm on Why Founders Fail Alone: The High Cost of Solo Decision-Making in Startups

The entrepreneurial journey is often portrayed as a solo mission—one brilliant founder, one big idea, one path to success. But in reality, going it alone is one of the fastest ways to derail even the most promising startups. According to seasoned entrepreneur and philanthropist Shalom Lamm, solo decision-making can be more dangerous than making no decision at all.

“Too many founders try to do everything themselves,” Lamm says. “But when you’re in the echo chamber of your own mind, even smart decisions can go sideways.”

Having led ventures across real estate, tech, and nonprofit sectors, Lamm understands the immense pressure founders face to have all the answers. But he also knows from experience that successful companies are rarely built in isolation. In fact, one of his most impactful initiatives—Operation Benjamin, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the legacy of Jewish American soldiers—was born out of deep collaboration and input from multiple experts.

His message to entrepreneurs? Don’t do it alone.

 

The Myth of the “Lone Genius”

The startup world loves a hero. We celebrate founders like they’re lone warriors who fought every battle by themselves. But these stories are often more myth than reality. Behind every Steve Jobs is a Steve Wozniak. Behind every visionary founder is a team of collaborators, advisors, and quiet contributors who help shape critical decisions.

“Founders who isolate themselves tend to burn out faster, make more costly mistakes, and miss blind spots that others would have seen instantly,” Lamm explains.

 

The Real Risks of Solo Decision-Making

Shalom Lamm highlights several major dangers that come with going it alone in business:

1. Tunnel Vision

When all decisions funnel through one person, objectivity disappears. “You start believing your ideas are bulletproof because you haven’t invited criticism,” Lamm says. Without outside perspectives, startups fall prey to flawed assumptions, poor timing, or product-market misalignment.

2. Slower Growth

Decision bottlenecks are real. When one person is responsible for every move—from product tweaks to hiring to fundraising—growth stalls. “You can’t be agile if everything waits for your green light,” says Lamm.

3. Emotional Burnout

Solo founders often carry a crushing emotional load. Without a co-founder, mentor, or advisory board, stress builds up quickly. “You start second-guessing yourself, and there’s no one to talk you through it,” Lamm says. “That kind of isolation is dangerous—for both your health and your business.”

 

Lessons from Operation Benjamin

Lamm’s nonprofit work with Operation Benjamin serves as a powerful example of the importance of collaboration. The organization identifies Jewish American soldiers buried under Latin crosses and works to restore their identities with proper headstones. This work is sensitive, meticulous, and requires input from military historians, genealogists, community leaders, and religious authorities.

“There’s no room for ego in a mission like this,” Lamm explains. “We make every decision as a team because the stakes are too high to risk getting it wrong.”

This mindset translates directly into his entrepreneurial philosophy. Whether it’s honoring fallen soldiers or launching a new venture, Lamm believes the best outcomes come from shared leadership, active listening, and humility.

 

How Founders Can Avoid the Isolation Trap

Lamm offers these practical tips to help entrepreneurs stay collaborative and grounded:

1. Build an Advisory Network Early

Surround yourself with experienced mentors and advisors. You don’t need a huge board—just a few people who will challenge your assumptions and guide your thinking.

2. Find a Co-Founder (or Right-Hand Person)

A co-founder isn’t just someone to share the load—it’s someone who brings complementary skills and another perspective to the table.

3. Encourage Internal Feedback

Create a culture where team members can question decisions respectfully. “The best ideas often come from the people closest to the ground,” Lamm says.

4. Be Vulnerable

It’s okay not to have all the answers. Share your doubts and decisions with trusted peers. Vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.

 

Final Thoughts

The dream of entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be a lonely one. In fact, the smartest founders—like Shalom Lamm—know that real leadership isn’t about going it alone, but knowing when to invite others in.

From the boardroom to the battlefield of history, collaboration has fueled Lamm’s success across sectors. Operation Benjamin stands not just as a testament to honoring the past, but to the power of working together to do it right.

In business, as in life, you go faster alone—but you go further together. Don’t let pride or fear keep you from building something stronger, smarter, and more sustainable—with others by your side.