How important a role mentor plays in a startup?

I think a mentor can be good for some practical things. For instance, if you have a mentor that has lots of experience in the thing you're still trying to learn how to do. For instance: a coding mentor, a marketing mentor, an outreach mentor. I take mentors with "general startup advice" with a bigger grain of salt though. Every stratup is different and there are many different paths to startups. I mistrust anyone who tells me: "in order to have a successful startup you must do this, this, and this.".

Critical. A good mentor can fast-track your learning, help you sidestep pitfalls, and open up network opportunities. Still, gotta remember it's your show. Learn from them but chart your own course.

Mentors are like cheat codes. They've already made the mistakes so you don't have to. They're not just there for the good times but also for tough love.

I believe Mentors are the secret weapon for startup success! Their guidance and network open doors and light the path to triumph.