FusionAuth operates differently from similar companies in the CIAM market, being profitable, doubling its revenue year to year, and adding new logos to its customer roster daily without taking a single cent of outside funding. This "VC-free" approach has opened many doors and saved the company from sticky situations like Silicon Valley Bank's collapse. However, the startup landscape often presents success stories that gloss over failures, with investors benefiting from successful companies' success. In contrast, FusionAuth aims to tell its true story, differentiating between the glamor and reality of the startup world. The company's founder, Brian Pontarelli, shares his journey, including being turned down by Techstars, witnessing the intricate dance of the VC world, and learning valuable lessons about running a successful company. With a lean team, agile decision-making, and financial stability provided by CleanSpeak, FusionAuth has evolved into a free, open-source CIAM solution, expanding its reach in the market.