> the hypothetical scenario we're talking about here is "first employee" which tends to mean a salaried position with benefits. Agreed. Which is why they aren'

> the hypothetical scenario we're talking about here is "first employee" which tends to mean a salaried position with benefits. Agreed. Which is why they aren't getting co-founder levels of equity. 5% for a key position sounds about right. But if you want them to go all-in on your startup then you are mad not to compensate them for it. If you want mis-aligned incentives for a very key position then go right ahead but don't call someone entitled for wanting to be compensated fairly for the risk and responsibilities.