Voice AI startup founder doubles productivity in 100 days with Optimal Pace Protocol
Aaron Houghton
Aaron
Charles
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Aaron
Charles, it's February 2026, and you've been kicking butt on the Optimal Pace Protocol for 100 days now.
Your first check in and the first time you saw your Optimal Pace was October 30th, 2025. Your Optimal Pace averaged around 5 that first week.
Since then, your Optimal Pace more than doubled to 12 the last week of January. That's incredible progress in your first three months using the protocol.
You’ve gone from being able to sustainably work 35 hours a week to being able to sustainably work 84 hours every week with ease.
Aaron
Since October, I'm curious what changes you've felt in yourself as you've doubled your capacity for high-performance work?
Charles
I absolutely feel a change. Venture building is still a roller coaster, but the drops aren't as rough or last as long as they used to.
I would previously swing widely based on our business's positive or negative news, and now I'm much more controlled. Overall, using the plays built into Dory gives me a much more proactive mindset as compared to just being completely reactive.
Aaron
When your Optimal Pace goes up, you can work more without needing to put extra effort into recovery every day. This saves you time and makes everything feel easier.
What has felt easier for you over this period?
Charles
I find myself getting into a “flow” state more regularly and having more energy to tackle things I would previously describe as “having to go grind on x, y or z”.
Overall, not having to push as hard on the simple things gives me a lot more mental focus every day.
Aaron
When you know you have the ability to put in a great work effort without burning yourself out, it becomes easier to make big moves and chase bigger opportunities than you might not otherwise do when you're worried about burning out.
What are some big moves you've made the last three months that you might have been too hesitant to have taken if you were worried about burning out?
Charles
The venture has doubled the team and moved fast because I know I'm leading with focus and energy. If I had been on verge of burning out I might have hesitated or been more cautious.
Aaron
You've shared that the business is growing, your team is growing, and some big national partners are considering backing you.
What are some big milestones and accomplishments you've achieved in the last three months while running your life on your Optimal Pace Protocol?
Charles
Since I’ve started with the OPP we’ve raised institutional capital, brought on A-level advisors and hired world-class employees. Much of that has been possible because I have been able to push for those opportunities with 100% of my energy and focus.
I don't think those things would have happened if I had been even 10% off my A game.