Jeff Bezos found that having his executives write memos was the most effective way to sift through the BS. The way we write is the way we think. When writing your application essay, please write it without the help of LLM's.

What You're Applying For

Der Hebel isn't just another business community. We're a high-intensity transformation circle for leaders ready to identify their critical leverage points and break through whatever's holding them back. Our members include founders, technical leaders, and innovators who share one trait: they're willing to both give and receive brutal honesty in service of growth.

The Selection Process

1. Written Application (45-60 minutes)
   • Complete our in-depth questionnaire focused on your constraints, failures, and growth moments
   • No polished PR answers - we value raw honesty over perfection
2. Breakthrough Dialogue (90 minutes)
   • Experience our signature format firsthand
   • Receive direct feedback from current members
   • Demonstrate your ability to give valuable insights to others
3. Final Decision
   • Mutual fit assessment within 48 hours
   • Clear action steps for accepted members
   • Specific feedback for those not selected

What We Look For

• Proven track record of executing and leading
• Demonstrated ability to receive and integrate tough feedback
• Unique perspective or experience that adds value to the community
• Ready to commit time and energy to other members' growth
• Willingness to be vulnerable and authentic

What You Commit To If Selected

• €4,997 quarterly investment
• Weekly attendance at Breakthrough Dialogues
• Active participation in member challenges
• Giving honest, direct feedback to fellow members
• Supporting the community's growth and evolution

Red Flags That Will Disqualify You

• Unwillingness to be vulnerable about failures
• History of defensive reactions to feedback
• Missing the application deadline (shows lack of commitment)
• Generic or superficial application responses
• Inability to articulate clear constraints and leverage points

Next Steps

1. Complete the application thoughtfully and honestly
2. Block 90 minutes for a potential Breakthrough Dialogue
3. Expect a response within 7 days

Remember: Der Hebel is not for everyone. We're looking for members ready to transform through leverage and brutal honesty. If that makes you uncomfortable but excited, you're probably in the right place.

Apply now and begin your transformation journey.

Application Process

1. Submit your application online through our secure portal.
2. Applications received before February 11 will receive decisions by March 12. Late applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
3. We encourage you to apply as soon as you're ready - founding member spots are limited to 20 seats.
4. Promising candidates will be invited to a Breakthrough Dialogue - our signature 90-minute intensive session. Dialogues are conducted virtually in February and March. You'll receive detailed feedback and a decision within 48 hours of your dialogue.
5. Upon acceptance, you'll receive immediate access to the Der Hebel community and resources.

About the Transformation Cycle

The Spring 2025 cycle begins with a mandatory 2-day intensive in Berlin. This immersive experience sets the foundation for your transformation journey. Weekly virtual sessions follow, with optional monthly in-person intensives in major European tech hubs.

During the cycle, you'll experience:

• Weekly Breakthrough Dialogues with your power triad
• Monthly workshops led by elite technical leaders and founders
• Direct access to Der Hebel's constraint-breaking frameworks
• Personalized leverage point identification sessions

Every member works with a dedicated Leverage Guide - successful founders and technical leaders who've broken through significant constraints. Your guide provides direct feedback and helps identify critical leverage points through weekly check-ins.

Members progress through the cycle in intimate groups of 5, called Leverage Circles. These circles meet weekly for candid discussions and breakthrough sessions. Many members form lasting professional bonds within their circles.

The Der Hebel community extends far beyond the initial quarter. Our alumni network includes technical leaders and founders who continue to support each other's growth through our private communication channels.

Beyond the First Quarter

Der Hebel is a long-term transformation commitment. Members who complete their first quarter can continue their journey with:

• Advanced leverage workshops
• Peer consulting opportunities
• Priority access to Der Hebel events
• Ability to mentor incoming members

For questions about the application process, contact our team at service@voundbrand.com.

Ready to find your leverage point? Apply Now.