$50k for a CTO isn't insane. The CTO is probably going to be given more equity at that stage than a programmer, and will also have more control. I wouldn't tak

$50k for a CTO isn't insane. The CTO is probably going to be given more equity at that stage than a programmer, and will also have more control. I wouldn't take the job, but I imagine there are less risk averse people that would.