To your thorough response, i would simply add that experience with large established companies is a good way to get an understanding how these behemoths operate

To your thorough response, i would simply add that experience with large established companies is a good way to get an understanding how these behemoths operate, what the typical pain points they have, and how mature companies establish processes for everything. Moving on to a startup as an employee, esp. an early one, is also a great experience and usually gives you experience outside of your specific discipline (e.g. developer). Everyone wears multiple hats, you operate in a small environment, and you'll be privy to VC meetings/ pitch decks/ cap tables/ board meetings/ etc. Networking throughout those experiences will serve you well when the time comes to start your own.