Awesome. I've been trying to figure out exactly how I'm going to feel when trying to work on startup. Your post seems more realistic and kind of shows me exactly what I should be expecting.

Thanks for this.

One quick question: I'm not a uber geek. Ie I like the business side of the equation too. Is this a good thing or a bad thing ?

Not a Bad Thing, per se. I will tell you this: I recently launched a company with my cofounder who has had prior success. She had to do both the technical and business aspects. The startup we are building ATM wouldn't be a success if it hadn't been for her business experience - but I will also echo my side: she didn't do any of the programming; it is clear my skill and knowledge are deeper. So, in short, this startup really wouldn't be much without either. However, it's easier to be technical and acquire the business knowledge than the other way around, IMHO.

So, the better question is: what kind of startup are you building? If it's a technology startup, you will either need to commit to learning your technology space or finding a technical co-founder. Committing to learning the technology will teach you a lot about your interests, you will either love it or not - if you don't love it, you won't succeed technically (you might business wise, there are plenty of companies with shitty technology that make money).

Just some thoughts from a non-business oriented intellectual and programmer.