I just had a CEO reach out to me and offer an informal interview for a developer position that pays $50k in the US. Then he said he would consider me even though he would prefer someone with a computer science degree. I politely declined.

At least he offered a salary. I once was offered only equity in a non-formed dream corporation with the promise that "once we have a product"...

True but it offered no benefits and $50k per year isn’t enough for a single individual to live in my town with a marketplace healthcare plan and a 1 bedroom apartment. So it’s definitely not enough for a family man.

I imagine he hasn’t had any CS grads apply to work for $50k and no benefits so that’s why he reached out to me on LinkedIn. I’m no CS grad but I’m capable of making far more that $50k fortunately.