Brandon, you’ve hit on a pivotal point: aligning brand with market demand requires more than just design skills—it demands strategic acumen. A co-founder who can interpret market signals and integrate them into the brand strategy is invaluable. This alignment isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about ensuring the brand resonates with your target segment and drives measurable growth. A track record in strategic positioning can signal whether they understand how to leverage brand for competitive advantage. Have you explored how potential co-founders assess market opportunities and translate them into a compelling value proposition? That could be a game-changer in your vetting process.