The key difference here (well <i>a</i> key difference) is the coaching. Having a 3rd party who isn't your boss (the competition) or you who looks out for your longer term health and ability is <i>incredibly</i> valuable.<p>In software, I guess we call that a mentor? But a mentor is much less involved, day-to-day, than a coach is, so I'm not sure the metaphor translates. Could a great (not just good) boss play that role?