The Exit Mythologist
"Exited for 8 figures (details under NDA, sorry)"
This archetype claims a massive exit but can never share details due to perpetual "NDA restrictions." The company name is vague or unsearchable, the acquirer is always "confidential," and the expertise from this exit fuels an expensive coaching program.
Also exhibits
After my 8-figure exit (NDA sorry), I realized I wanted to give back. DMs open.
— Typical The Exit Mythologist claim
// Higher score = more creative fabrication
Red Flags
Documented warning signs to watch for with this archetype.
Perpetual NDA
CriticalExit details are eternally confidential - convenient for fabrication.
Unsearchable Company
CriticalThe "exited" company has no digital footprint, press, or employees.
Coaching Pivot
HighExit immediately followed by high-ticket coaching launch.
Vague Timeline
HighWhen pressed, timeline becomes fuzzy or contradicts previous claims.
Timeline Analysis
Track the evolution of claims over time. Watch for contradictions and suspicious patterns.
First appearance on Twitter, already claiming "exited founder" status
No record of previous company or exit in any database
Launches "Founder Coaching" program for $5,000/month
In podcast, mentions exit was in 2019
In another podcast, says exit was in 2018
"Helped 50 founders raise $100M+" - no founders named
Pattern Detection
Observable patterns with educational protection tips.
The NDA Shield
What to watch for
Every verifiable detail hidden behind "NDA"
Why it's suspicious
Real exits often have press releases, Crunchbase entries, or LinkedIn confirmation
Protection tip
Search Crunchbase, press releases, and LinkedIn for ANY verification
The Expertise Transfer
What to watch for
Unverifiable exit used to justify coaching credentials
Why it's suspicious
Teaching others to exit when your own exit can't be confirmed
Protection tip
Ask for references from the acquiring company or investors
The Figure Flex
What to watch for
"8 figures" or "7 figures" with no specificity
Why it's suspicious
$10M and $99M are both "8 figures" - vague on purpose
Protection tip
Ask for the exact number - watch for deflection
How to Protect Yourself
Practical steps to verify claims and avoid being deceived by this archetype.
Search Crunchbase, PitchBook, and press for ANY record of the company
Check LinkedIn for employees of the company - do they exist?
Ask for introductions to investors or board members
Google the exact company name in quotes - it should exist somewhere
See More Patterns
Explore our database of fake entrepreneur archetypes and learn to recognize the patterns.
Disclaimer: This archetype is a fictional composite based on observable patterns in the entrepreneurial space. No real individual is depicted. This is educational satire for entertainment purposes only.
// "Understanding the pattern is the first step to protection."