Catching up on things on the flight home from Leiden - Tech Centraal for Joost (look, a Dutch word! used properly!) - I saw that my new job was mentioned by A-list analyst and Real Smart Guy James Governor on a link collection on his blog.

His comment was interesting :

who would have thought Geir wanted to get rich quick? congratulations man.

Thanks James, but this made me think....

First, who wouldn't want to get rich quick? "No thanks... think of the tax bill...." I have no clue if I'm going to get rich quick at Joost - that's not why I did it - but I promise not to argue if someone decide to hand me a big check.

Second, why would James be surprised? This is my 4th real startup (the prior ones have either achieved positive cash flow and profitability or resulted in an acquisition), and my passion for open source and open standards isn't in conflict with whatever drives me to do things like Joost (disruptive business model? great people to work with? novel and innovative technology challenges? an opportunity for financial reward?)

After all, "open" is different than "Free"*

* "Free" is a service mark of the FSF and is should not be confused with the English word "free". After accepting Freedom, be aware that some pre-existing rights may not be available. Your mileage may vary. The FSF reserves the right to substitute existing rights with rights of equal or different value at any time. Any prior statements made about intended compatibility should be considered as advisory. Do not operate heavy machinery when under the influence of Freedom. Do not taunt Freedom in an enclosed area. Keep out of reach of children.