I'm interested in hearing about experiences on people who are not founders and made money in an IPO/buyout. How much can that realistically be? You're diluted down to 0. something percent by the time the exit happens. Compared to the opportunity cost of just getting paid each month for several years, do employees in a startup come out ahead, financially?
If BigCo doubles revenue this year (probably impossible if it really is a big company) how will it affect your life?
If BigCo gets acquired next year will you be popping champaign or worried about your job?