zlacker

The problem with that approach is that getting a high level VP position at a non-trivial sized company is pretty competitive and there are only so many open slots to go around. It also requires a strict career plan and the ability to play office politics very well, which I think most techies struggle with.

Being the guy who sells a small app, service, or utility on the side and clearing $150k a year, or more, via mostly passive income is a much easier trick to pull off. Also this approach can come with a sweetheart acquisition deal from a larger company that wants your product and can run in the millions, on top of what you've earned already.