If you were to log in, you'd be able to get more information on your fellow community member.
Your experience, Philip, mirrors my own experience with VCs coming in and destroying the atmosphere, intelligence and innovation in a company. While I'm sure it's painful to see your baby go down the toilet, you'll have no trouble starting up ArsDigita2 and getting zillions of clients. The beauty of the GPL is that you can take ACS and move it forward in the direction you desire. Failing that, I'm sure there would be hundreds of companies that would take you on as an independent board member, just in case you enjoy wearing a suit and never coding.