Hi, I’m Adam Root, and I’m glad you’re here. This space is where I share the real, unpolished side of leadership—the triumphs, the failures, and the lessons that have shaped me into the man I am today. Over the past 15+ years, I’ve worn many hats: product executive, startup founder, venture capitalist, and mentor. But behind all the titles and accolades lies a journey filled with hard-earned wisdom, personal sacrifices, and moments of profound self-discovery.

I created this Medium page as a place to explore the human side of leadership—because let’s be honest, it’s not always glamorous. Success comes with a cost. Whether it’s the sleepless nights spent solving impossible problems, the relationships strained by ambition, or the emotional toll of constantly striving to be a high-value man, leadership is as challenging as it is rewarding.

Here’s what you can expect from my writing:

Candid Stories: I’ll share the raw truths about my experiences—what worked, what didn’t, and what I wish I’d known sooner.

Hard Lessons Learned: From navigating failure to managing success without losing yourself in the process, I’ll break down the lessons that have shaped my perspective.

Actionable Insights: Whether you’re leading a team or leading your own life, you’ll find practical takeaways to help you grow both personally and professionally.

The Emotional Side of Ambition: Leadership isn’t just about strategy; it’s about resilience, self-awareness, and navigating the inevitable costs of chasing big goals.

This space is for ambitious professionals who are striving for more—not just in their careers but in their lives as a whole. If you’re someone who values growth over perfection and wants to lead with authenticity while balancing the demands of ambition and personal fulfillment, you’re in the right place.

I’m not here to sell you quick fixes or sugarcoat reality. My goal is to start real conversations about what it means to lead with integrity while staying true to yourself. Because at the end of the day, leadership isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about who you become along the way.

If any of this resonates with you, I’d love for you to subscribe and join this community of like-minded leaders. Let’s learn from each other, grow together, and navigate this journey with honesty and intention.

Thanks for being here—I can’t wait to connect with you through my writing!

Connect with Adam Root
Adam Root

Adam Root

Hi! I share raw truths on leadership, ambition, and sacrifice. With 17+ years as a product exec, founder, and VC, I explore the resilience and costs of success.