Lots of comments here. This is one area where either you have tried or you haven’t and you have either succeeded or failed (to get to the next step). I tried,

Lots of comments here. This is one area where either you have tried or you haven’t and you have either succeeded or failed (to get to the next step). I tried, (left my job, put my time and money on the line), had some small wins, but ultimately failed. Looking back, not getting in to YC was probably not a significant driver in the business not working. That said, when you have your money and reputation on the line, validation is very valuable, and those that say it isn’t, either haven’t done it or are truly unique.