The RealReal founder Julie Wainwright has a startling new memoir

Julie Wainwright has achieved the remarkable feat of taking two companies public, as detailed in her new memoir, Time to Get Real. In this book, she goes beyond just celebrating her successes and delves into the realities of leadership, sharing candid insights that many high-achieving CEOs can relate to but often keep private. One of the key moments she reflects on is the closure of Pets.com during the 2000 market crash, a setback that had a significant impact on her career for years to come.

Wainwright’s journey to success was not without its challenges. Despite early accomplishments at Clorox and tech companies in the ’90s, she faced a major setback with the closure of Pets.com. This event, coupled with personal struggles, led her to a period of uncertainty and reflection. However, it also set the stage for a remarkable comeback with the founding of The RealReal in 2010, a pioneering venture in the luxury consignment market.

While her tenure at The RealReal had its own share of ups and downs, including her unexpected departure in 2022, Wainwright remains resilient and continues to pursue new entrepreneurial endeavors. One such project is Ahara, a nutrition company focused on personalized dietary recommendations based on genetics and individual needs.

In her memoir, Wainwright not only shares personal experiences but also imparts valuable lessons and practical advice for entrepreneurs. Her candid and unfiltered approach to storytelling sets her apart in a corporate world often characterized by polished narratives and hidden truths. By offering a realistic view of the entrepreneurial journey, Wainwright hopes to inspire others and prevent them from making the same mistakes she did.

For a deeper dive into Wainwright’s story and insights, you can listen to the full conversation on DailyTech’s StrictlyVC Download podcast. And if you’re looking for a read that combines memoir with practical guidance for founders, be sure to check out Time to Get Real.

As Wainwright aptly puts it, “I personally wrote it for entrepreneurs to give them a realistic view and hopefully inspire them and, you know, maybe they’ll think twice and not make the mistakes I made.”