Podcast appearances and mentions of jay kapoor

Worried about retaining your best employees? Our guest on this episode is helping you do just that. Lindsay McGregor is the CEO and Co-Founder of Factor.ai and co-author of the bestselling book "Primed to Perform: How to Build the Highest Performing Cultures Through the Science of Total Motivation." Lindsay has one of the best track records of working with fast-growing startups like Slack, Grab, and Flexport byhelping them build a high-performance team culture. Previously, Lindsay led impactful projects at McKinsey, partnering with Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, universities, and school systems. She earned her B.A. from Princeton and her MBA from Harvard Business School. In Episode 075 of CLIMB by VSC, Lindsay discusses why the 'fun' culture in entrepreneurship isn't working, the importance of measuring your team's motivation, and why autonomy could be killing your startup. Follow us on LinkedIn: Lindsay McGregor— https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaymcgregor/ Jay Kapoor— https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaykapoor/ VSC Ventures— https://www.linkedin.com/company/vsc-ventures/ 00:00:00 Intro 00:00:47 Meet Lindsay McGregor 00:02:01 3 Frameworks Every Founder Needs to Know 00:03:36 Tactical and Adaptive Balance in Startups 00:08:53 The 6 Key Motivators for Your Startup 00:16:00 The 'Fun' Culture in Entrepreneurship isn't Working 00:23:43 Are You Measuring Your Team's Motivation? 00:31:05 Strategy is Ignoring Great Ideas: Slack Founder 00:31:57 Autonomy is Killing Your Startup 00:36:02 No Velocity? Your Startups is Doomed to Fail 00:39:32 Factor.ai is Simplifying Management 00:42:38 Great founders Aren't the Most Charismatic 00:48:28 You Needs this Pit Stop Strategy to build a Great Company 00:53:03 Where can people learn more about Factor.ai?

The value of water to water security is $4 trillion today and is likely to triple in the next 10 years. [Source: Global Water Intelligence] To put that $12 trillion into perspective, it is higher than the GDP of every other country other than the US and China. Meet Peter Yolles, General Partner at Echo River Capital, a seasoned entrepreneur and strategic investor in early-stage water technology companies. Peter founded WaterSmart Software (acquired by Vertex One), serving 200 water utility customers and reaching over 20 million people. With a joint MBA and MES from Yale and a BA from the University of Colorado, he authored the CREO Syndicate report on water impact investment. Peter continues to advise founders with his deep domain and operational expertise. In Episode 074 of CLIMB by VSC, Peter and host Jay Kapoor analyze the water value chain, the three Ds VCs need to know when investing in water technology, carbon capture, portfolio companies & more. Connect with us on LinkedIn: 1. Peter Yolles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yolles/ 2. Jay Kapoor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaykapoor/

As many have attested, there's nothing romantic about being a founder. It's about doing what has to be done. And that's what makes entrepreneurship difficult. In Episode 073 of CLIMB, Zach Coelius, Managing Partner at Coelius Capital, maintains that being a founder is 10x harder than being a VC. Talking about an investor's MO, Zach equates being in the stands, drinking a beer, with the same as being a VC and deciding which companies will survive, and which will die. Zach is known for his investments in Angel List, HelloSign, Mercury, and more, but what is lesser known about him is that before investing, Zach sold an ad-tech business to Facebook (now Meta). As if this isn't impressive enough, he also raised $33M for Coelius Capital's Fund II, that too in a record 3 weeks! In the latest episode of CLIMB by VSC, Zach and host Jay Kapoor discuss their views on:  • repeat founders versus first-time founders  • how Zach sold his company • the journey as an entrepreneur & more. Tune in to the full episode now. Connect with us on LinkedIn: Zach Coelius: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachcoelius/ Jay Kapoor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaykapoor/ Chapters: 00:00 Trailer 00:47 Zach Coelius Introduction 02:07 What does it feel like being an investor? 06:00 The three stages of being a founder 09:30 What are the common mistakes most founders make? 11:11 How do early founders navigate challenges? 12:52 It's hard for founders to find an authentic circle 13:40 How do you evaluate someone with the right mix of learning and conviction? 15:31 Which three networks stand out to Zach? 17:00 What is it about vertical software that excites you? 20:56 What gets you excited about AI? 23:10 What is the process of securing a hit deal? 24:20 You can't change your pitch every time you change a business. 27:48 How to get comfortable with uncertain opportunities? 29:25 Are there commonalities across industries? 33:21 What are the most common mistakes boards you've worked with make? 41:05 It's all about timing. 42:14 What's the flipside of being a general partner? 45:45 What's a piece of advice you give to founders that isn't taken well enough? 51:10 Episode Outro Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/U4NFkF7jCmg

Ann Bordetsky, partner at New Enterprise Associates (NEA), joins us in this episode to discuss how AI is creating new business categories and transforming the tech industry. Ann shares her journey through the tech world, her role in supporting startups, and the keys to building successful businesses today. She highlights the importance of understanding market trends and customer needs to innovate and stay ahead. Listen to Ann's unique experiences and get valuable advice for entrepreneurs and investors keen on navigating the evolving landscape of tech with AI. This episode is ideal for anyone curious about technology, startups, and innovation in business. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in early-stage startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency, VSC. Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem. Chapters: 1. 0:00 - Introduction and Overview of Category Creation 2. 6:09 - The Role of First Movers in Market Evolution 3. 12:15 - Attributes of a Successful Category-Creating Founder 4. 18:25 - Depth and Vision in Pitching Ideas 5. 24:50 - Validating New Categories 6. 30:55 - The Impact of AI on Small and Medium Businesses 7. 37:05 - Lessons from Mobile Era and Patience in Investing 8. 43:43 - Democratizing Creative Tooling with AI 9. 49:46 - Supporting Female Founders 10. 56:13 - Final Thoughts and Advice for Founders Pitching to Investors

Join us in this episode as we talk with Jason Shuman, a General Partner at Primary Ventures. Jason shares his journey from selling shoes to becoming a big name in venture capital and we dive deep into how venture capitalists like him support and grow startups. Jason talks about his early days of starting his own business, his experiences, and how he moved into the world of investing. He explains what startups need to do to succeed and how investors can really help them grow. You'll hear stories from Jason's own life, like how driving for Uber helped him make important business connections. He also gives us a peek into his strategies for picking and supporting new companies. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, seasoned investors, and anyone interested in the transformative power of venture capital. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in early-stage startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency, VSC. Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem. Chapters - 0:00 - Intro: Value and Impact of Venture Capital 5:05 - The Growth and Influence of New York's Tech Ecosystem 10:17 - Leveraging the "X for Y" Investment Framework 15:10 - The Strategic Use of AI for Enhancing Small Businesses 20:04 - Understanding the Dynamics of SMB Customer Acquisition 25:00 - The Role and Impact of Expert Networks in Venture Capital 30:44 - Discussing the Distinct Approach of Primary's Investment Team 35:42 - Insights into the Scale and Incentives in Venture Capital 40:16 - The Significance of Being Present and Engaged in Investments 45:21 - Practical Advice for Founders on Learning and Networking 50:02 - Closing Remarks and Reflections on Venture Capital Practices

In this episode, we welcome Sunil Paul, a pioneer in ride-sharing and a significant figure in sustainable transportation. Paul, who started Sidecar and influenced the early stages of Getaround, dives into his newest venture, Spring Free EV. With his extensive experience, including his early work as a NASA contractor and AOL's first internet product manager, Paul brings a rich history of innovation and policy analysis. Join us as Sunil Paul shares his journey from a technology policy analyst in Washington D.C. to becoming a cornerstone in the evolution of ride-sharing and electric vehicles. The discussion unpacks the origins and future of Spring Free EV, emphasizing its role in transitioning fleet vehicles from gas to electric through innovative financing models. Paul elaborates on the challenges and potential of electric vehicles in solving the climate crisis, reflecting on how electrification can aid in managing renewable energy sources like solar and wind due to battery storage capabilities. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in early-stage startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC. Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem.

We welcome Peter Relan, a seasoned Silicon Valley veteran with a rich 40-year history of entrepreneurship and investment. Renowned for founding the YouWeb Incubator, Relan has been instrumental in the early stages of companies that have become household names, such as Discord. His early engagement with VSC Ventures has been invaluable, and his participation promises a wealth of knowledge and experience. Relan shares the compelling story behind Discord's success, emphasizing the importance of a strong founding team, innovative thinking, and the right investor support. The conversation also turns to Relan's unique approach with YouWeb, where he opts for a deeply involved, personalized mentoring method, distinguishing his work from more conventional, larger-scale incubators. His ability to foresee and act on emerging trends, from digital entertainment to the latest advancements in climate technology, highlights his forward-thinking approach. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in early-stage startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC. Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem.

This week, we're proud to share a special episode of the CLIMB by VSC podcast with Jay Kapoor, featuring his interview with Sunil Nagaraj. CLIMB is a weekly podcast where Jay and VSC Ventures co-founder Vijay Chattha speak with leading investors, founders, and industry experts about lessons and perspectives on company-building in the world of climate tech and climate adaptation. From CLIMB by VSC:We're honored to host Sunil Nagaraj, a visionary investor in the intersection of deep tech and climate innovation, and founding partner of Ubiquity Ventures. Nagaraj's unique perspective on "software beyond the screen" and his commitment to supporting early-stage, tech-driven startups are at the forefront of our discussion. We dive into the essence of nurturing technologies with disciplined financing and the strategic scaling of startups to mitigate climate change.Our conversation spans a variety of topics, from the complexities of venture capital in the climate tech space to the pivotal role of startups in driving substantial change. Sunil shares insights on the importance of focusing on high-impact areas and the potential pitfalls in the startup ecosystem, particularly emphasizing the significance of avoiding the "moonshot culture" that often hinders the progress of deep tech ventures.About VSC Ventures:VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in early-stage startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC.Links discussed in this episode:Moonshot Culture is Strangling Deeptech article: https://www.ubqt.vc/p/moonshot-culture-is-strangling-deeptech Ubiquity University: https://university.ubiquity.vc/Episode Highlights00:00 Conor Gaughan introduces CLIMB by VSC02:42 Trailer 03:17 Introduction04:01 What defines a startup as truly 'Nerdy and Early'?"07:11 What's the first question investors make?11:30 How do investors navigate unfamiliar markets?16:17 The pros and cons of a singular investment strategy21:49 How do 'crazy' ideas become genius investments26:45 The 'Don't Repeat Yourself' mantra in Venture Capital29:35 The cost of keeping secrets in Venture Capital31:57 How trust accelerates organizational velocity39:30 Should investors be more involved in early stage startups?42:47 How can startups become better companies47:19 The dangers of Moonshot Culture in Deep Tech52:39 What's the one thing your startup should focus on?55:07 Can technology truly turn the tide against climate change?We'll be back next week with a brand new episode of Consensus in Conversation. In the meantime, make sure to follow the CLIMB by VSC podcast for more great perspectives on company-building. Connect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and threads.net/@ckgoneHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at CiC@consensus-digital.comConsensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we host Kate McAndrew, founding partner of Baukunst. We discuss the ‘art of building' successful startups and VC firms as well as the philosophy and practices that have driven Kate to find and invest in groundbreaking technologies over her venture career. From building and leading a $100 million Fund I to championing innovative business models, Kate shares her journey and insights on taking risks, the importance of art and design in technology, and how to be the perfect board member for transformative companies. If you're curious about what it takes to build the future and create category-defining companies that matter, this conversation is for you. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in early-stage startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC. Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem. Chapters 00:00:00 Trailer 00:00:44 Introduction 00:07:21 What's the secret to leading pre-seed rounds successfully 00:11:33 How do founders find the right Venture Capital fit 00:20:57 Focusing solely on the end goal can lead to failure 00:23:29 How do founders stay motivated for goals YEARS AWAY 00:33:26 Resume Versus Real Experience: What Matters Most? 00:35:40 How an Airbnb executive created a baby formula brand 00:41:36 Why some founders succeed without deep industry experience 00:45:54 How do Venture Capital Teams handle competition 00:49:50 Being too hard on yourself can doom your startup 00:53:19 Technology isn't the only answer to climate change

We're honored to host Sunil Nagaraj, a visionary investor in the intersection of deep tech and climate innovation, and founding partner of Ubiquity Ventures. Nagaraj's unique perspective on "software beyond the screen" and his commitment to supporting early-stage, tech-driven startups are at the forefront of our discussion. We dive into the essence of nurturing technologies with disciplined financing and the strategic scaling of startups to mitigate climate change. Our conversation spans a variety of topics, from the complexities of venture capital in the climate tech space to the pivotal role of startups in driving substantial change. Sunil shares insights on the importance of focusing on high-impact areas and the potential pitfalls in the startup ecosystem, particularly emphasizing the significance of avoiding the "moonshot culture" that often hinders the progress of deep tech ventures. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in early-stage startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC. Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem. Links discussed in this episode: Moonshot Culture is Strangling Deeptech article: https://www.ubqt.vc/p/moonshot-culture-is-strangling-deeptech Ubiquity University: https://university.ubiquity.vc/

Jay Kapoor believes there is massive opportunity in climate automation and that identifying hidden economies is key to building a more sustainable future. Jay is co-founder and general partner at VSC Ventures, a storytelling-focused VC firm investing in early stage climate tech and automation startups. In part two of our conversation with Jay, we dive into the nitty gritty: Jay shares how hidden economies inform his investing thesis, why automation is key to our climate tech transition, how early startups are already tapping into this opportunity, and what a sustainable future could really look like. If you missed last week's episode, listen first to Jay Kapoor of VSC Ventures on Finding Purpose, Startup Storytelling, and the Founder with 1000 Faces. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Jay Kapoor on investing in climate automation00:58 Conor Gaughan introduces Jay Kapoor and VSC Ventures02:57 Looking for hidden economies as an investor10:22 Using analogies to boost storytelling 15:03 The huge potential in climate automation31:34 Exciting innovations in the tech industry 37:47 VSC's portfolio companies46:51 Envisioning a sustainable future with nuclear energy 50:04 Where to learn more51:35 Conclusion and end credits More on VSC Ventures and Jay Kapoor:vscventures.com/portfolio linkedin.com/company/vsc-ventures linkedin.com/in/jaykapoor/twitter.com/JayKapoorNYCJay's podcast: CLIMB by VSCConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone Have questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at CiC@consensus-digital.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference! Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jay Kapoor is combining venture capital and storytelling to help visionary founders achieve maximum impact. Jay noticed that while it was easier than ever to start a business, that made it harder than ever for individual companies to get noticed. How could founders get the world to see their unique vision for a better future? The answer was simple, but not easy – tell a compelling story. So, he and co-founder Vijay Chattha created VSC Ventures, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage climate tech and automation startups, using the power of storytelling to help them stand out. Hear Jay talk about the importance of curiosity and empathy, what the NFL's international games can teach us about growing a brand, and why every good business starts with a really good story. As you'll hear, we had so much fun talking with Jay, we convinced him to do a second episode, so stick around for part two next week. Episode Highlights:00:00 Jay Kapoor on the importance of asking “Why now?” in storytelling 00:52 Conor Gaughan introduces Jay Kapoor and VSC Ventures06:37 Multicultural background and perspective on sustainability23:23 Finance, NFL Europe, and marketing funnels31:31 The idea for VSC Ventures and crafting a good pitch44:53 Optimism, return on investment, and defining impact54:03 What's next – part two of our conversation 56:38 End credits More on VSC Ventures and Jay Kapoor:vscventures.com/portfolio linkedin.com/company/vsc-ventures/ linkedin.com/in/jaykapoor/ OR twitter.com/JayKapoorNYC Jay's podcast: CLIMB by VSCConnect with Conor Gaughan on linkedin.com/in/ckgone and instagram.com/ckgone Here's the link to Joseph Campbell's book, which both Conor and Jay mention: The Hero With A Thousand Faces.If you liked this episode, listen next to Matt Rogers of Mill Industries on Food Waste, Impactful Product Design, and InnovationAlso check out these episodes featuring folks Jay and Conor mentioned in their conversation:Rick Fox of Partanna on Sustainable Construction and Creating Winning TeamsRoger McClendon of Green Sports Alliance on Green Sports Day and Sustainability In SportsHave questions, or a great idea for a potential guest? Email us at CiC@consensus-digital.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – it really makes a difference! Consensus in Conversation is a podcast by Consensus Digital Media produced in association with Reasonable Volume. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are joined by Ian Samuels, founder and managing partner of New System Ventures, a climate tech investment firm dedicated to fostering transformative climate solutions. With a rich background in climate finance, policy, and technology, Ian offers deep insights into the intersection of climate innovation and investment. Our discussion dives into the role of policy in climate tech, the nuances of climate-focused investing, the challenges and opportunities in decarbonizing sectors like transportation, as well as the growth of The conversation also touches on the importance of capital efficiency in climate tech startups and the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on the climate technology landscape. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in early-stage startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem.

We have the pleasure of hosting Eric Rosenblum, the Managing Partner at Foothill Ventures. Eric shares his compelling journey from his humble beginnings in a small Ohio town to making significant strides in the tech world, including his time at Google where he embraced the fast-paced culture and learned valuable lessons in building scalable solutions. We dive into Eric's expertise in guiding startups through the complex landscape of deep tech and climate technology, drawing on his vast experiences from Google to launching successful ventures in Shanghai. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in industrial automation and climate adaptation startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem.

We are excited to welcome Alex Hall, co-founder and CEO of Concrete AI, a trailblazer in the construction industry's shift towards sustainability. With an innovative generative AI platform, Concrete AI revolutionizes the concrete mix formulation process, significantly reducing time, costs, and carbon emissions for manufacturers and the construction sector. Our discussion with Alex will explore how generative AI is transforming traditional practices and the broader implications for sustainability in construction. We'll also touch on the challenges and opportunities in adopting new technologies within this age-old industry. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in industrial automation and climate adaptation startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem.

We're excited to have Rishi Taparia, Twitter friend turned real-life companion and the founder and managing partner of Garuda Ventures. With the recent close of their first institutional fund at $31 million, Garuda Ventures is taking the early-stage startup world by storm, offering not just capital, but invaluable advice and support to entrepreneurs. Rishi shares his journey from banking to venture capital, and then as an operator in growing companies, before making his way back to venture, emphasizing the importance of resilience, relationship-building, and the nuanced understanding of market needs. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in industrial automation and climate adaptation startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem.

We sit down with Graham Brown, Managing Partner at Lerer Hippeau Ventures. Brown brings his venture capital expertise to the table, focusing on climate tech innovation. Lerer Hippeau has been the earliest investor in some of the most iconic consumer brands of the last decade, including Casper, Oscar, Buzzfeed, Mirror, Axios, and more. In late 2022, they announced $230M across two new funds. More recently, the fund has been an active investor in the kinds of climate and industrial automation companies we love to discuss on CLIMB. Our conversation covers the detrimental impact of large fund sizes on the early-stage founders they back, the evolving venture scene in New York over the past decade, and what makes climate tech startups succeed in 2024. Brown is now at the helm of one of the most iconic seed funds in our business and this interview had key insights for entrepreneurs and investors navigating the venture market in 2024. About VSC Ventures: VSC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund led by Jay Kapoor and Vijay Chattha where we invest in industrial automation and climate adaptation startups and support our founders with hands-on PR, storytelling, and go-to-market work with help from our award-winning PR agency VSC Our fund has invested alongside Lowercarbon, NEA, Uncork Capital, Left Lane, Alley Corp, Obvious Ventures, Third Sphere, and other leading early-stage funds. Through our weekly conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share our work with innovative companies like Paintjet, Glacier, Concrete.AI, Presso, ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠and Vibrant Planet⁠⁠ in addition to highlighting companies and leading voices across the early stage ecosystem

We are excited to welcome Francesca Whitehead. As a Vice President at Fifth Wall, Francesca brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on the intersection of property technology (prop tech) and climate innovation. Fifth Wall, known for being the largest venture fund in real estate and prop tech, plays a pivotal role in decarbonizing the built environment, aligning perfectly with Francesca's passion for impactful climate investing. Francesca shares her journey from growing up in Hong Kong and Vietnam, where the impacts of climate change were a daily reality, to her roles at Goldman Sachs and KKR, where she honed her investment skills with a focus on climate-related projects. She dives into her time at G2VP, a climate tech-focused fund, and discusses her current role at Fifth Wall, highlighting her strategic moves in the climate tech space, especially in Europe. We dive into the significance of heat pumps in reducing home emissions, the challenges and opportunities in carbon accounting, and the evolving landscape of climate tech investing. Francesca's insights into the complexities of the built environment, from materials to construction and building management, shed light on the potential for significant climate impact. This episode is brought to you by VSC Ventures, a leader in supporting and promoting climate startups. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

We sit down with Nate Williams, the founding partner of Union Labs Ventures. This episode dives into the complexities of startup success and the role of sales in ensuring a startup's longevity and growth. Nate Williams begins by discussing common pitfalls in startups, particularly the tendency to over-feature products, which can hinder finding a true Minimum Viable Product (MVP). He emphasizes the importance of focusing on one customer segment and use case, and securing payment for it as a foundation for success. We then explore the problem Union Labs aimed to solve in the venture capital industry. Nate, drawing on his experience as an Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) at Kleiner Perkins and a veteran in running successful startups, shares insights into the evolution of venture capital, particularly in deep tech. Union Labs was conceived to assist entrepreneurs from day zero, focusing on two key aspects: de-risking the product-market fit and addressing the crux of product development in deep tech. Closing the episode, Nate offers insights into the broader implications of deep tech investment for venture capital funds and Limited Partners (LPs). He stresses the importance of understanding the unique nature of deep tech, which often involves a higher level of technical risk and requires specialized knowledge and approach from investors. This episode is brought to you by VSC Ventures, a leader in supporting and promoting climate and technology startups. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

We're joined by Micah Kotch, an influential figure in the climate investment arena and a partner at Blackhorn Ventures. Kotch's expertise lies in investing in companies that revolutionize the way we use resources, emphasizing the integration of digital infrastructure to accelerate the energy transition. On this episode, Micah shares his experiences and insights on leveraging artificial intelligence in the fight against climate change. We explore how AI is reshaping various sectors, from energy to construction, and its pivotal role in designing efficient and sustainable solutions. Kotch discusses the importance of foundational data assets and how startups can leverage them for operational improvements and supply chain resilience. He also sheds light on the evolving landscape of micromobility, focusing on how it aligns with urban electrification and its potential to reshape cityscapes. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in this sector, including the emergence of new business models and the impact of regulatory environments on the growth of micromobility solutions. This episode is proudly presented by VSC Ventures, a trailblazer in supporting and promoting climate startups. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

We're joined by Helena Merk, CEO of Streamline Climate. Helena, who started as a coder, now leads the charge in helping startups navigate the tricky world of climate tech funding. What led her from coding to this niche? How startups succeed in this complex world? Helena shares insights into different grant programs, the importance of building relationships with grant issuers, and the challenges startups face in the grant landscape. Helena also emphasizes Streamline's role in aiding companies to find and apply for appropriate grants. About Streamline Climate: Streamline Climate is an innovative platform designed to assist climate companies in the fast and efficient drafting of proposals, particularly for grants, RFPs, permits, accelerator applications, and awards. The service is geared towards teams looking to maximize their impact in the climate sector, providing a streamlined process for generating and managing documents. Streamline Climate offers a variety of features including templates, AI-driven suggestions for key points in proposals, and tools for building a compelling narrative, all aimed at saving time and enhancing the quality of submissions. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Sander Dolder, Senior Vice President of the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), dives into their unique structure and goals. NYCEDC was established in the 1990s to repurpose federal properties turned over to the city, including transforming Times Square and repurposing industrial sites. Dolder discusses NYCEDC's efforts to diversify New York City's economy post-2008 recession, particularly focusing on climate transition and sustainable industries. He shares his journey from management consulting to his current role, driven by a passion for merging environmental justice work with the private sector. The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities in public-private partnerships, particularly in the climate technology sector, where local government interaction is crucial. Dolder emphasizes the importance of bridging gaps in ecosystem, workforce development, and infrastructure to facilitate the adoption of sustainable practices and technologies in New York City. This episode is brought to you by VSC Ventures. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Susan Schofer, Partner at SOSV and Chief Science Officer at HAX provides a fascinating look at how scientists transition into entrepreneurs, identifying key traits that contribute to the success of scientific founders in the startup world. We dive into the concept of "Industrial Independence" and its global impact, alongside insights into the US-China trade war's effect on tech startups. Susan discusses the unique challenges of a Chief Science Officer in driving hard tech innovations and the journey from scientific discovery to entrepreneurship. The conversation also highlights the transformative potential of synthetic biology and the obstacles in scaling new materials. Susan offers her perspective on the evolving climate technology landscape, emphasizing the significance of localized production and innovation. Whether you're a professional in the tech industry, a budding entrepreneur, or simply a curious mind passionate about sustainability, this episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions and insights. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Alejandro de la Garza, a reporter for Time, takes us on a journey through the complex world of climate and energy. From the latest advancements in sustainable technology to the challenges posed by global climate change, we dive into a conversation that's not just about understanding the problems but also about exploring viable solutions and innovations. - What are the latest trends in renewable energy? - How is technology shaping our response to climate change? - What does the future hold in the realm of climate and energy synergy? Alejandro brings his expertise and experience to answer these vital questions. Find Alejandro's articles here:⁠ - The Cruise Industry Is On a Course For Climate Disaster⁠ ⁠- The Ocean is the Next Frontier for the Carbon Removal Industry⁠ ⁠⁠⁠- The ‘Hurricane Tax' Hitting Florida Alongside Idalia⁠ - ⁠How Offshore Wind Can Supply 25% of U.S. Electricity by 2050⁠ - ⁠Alejandro's TIME page ⁠ About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Trailer 00:00:59 Introduction 00:06:16 How do journalists select climate stories 00:10:43 The consumer responsibility in a climate-conscious world 00:13:23 The climate dilemma of cruise vacations 00:17:04 The economic hurdles of green cruising 00:19:09 Can the Tesla model work for other eco-friendly products? 00:21:11 The IMO's struggle to set global maritime emission standards 00:27:36 The media gap in climate change advocacy 00:32:00 How companies blame consumers for climate crisis 00:42:44 Our last resort for climate change 00:46:25 Can we still count on Elon Musk as a climate leader? 00:51:50 Finding hope amidst climate doom

Shayna Harris, Co-Founder of Supply Change Capital digs deep into the critical world of food sustainability. Shayna's journey from an activist to a trailblazer in sustainable food systems offers invaluable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of our food supply chain. Under Shayna's guidance, Supply Change Capital is making significant strides in sustainable agriculture, shedding light on the impact of climate change on food production and the vital role of venture capital in driving innovation in the food sector. This episode describes the challenges and triumphs of creating a sustainable food future. From alternative proteins to the intersection of technology and food sustainability, Shayna shares her expertise and predictions for a healthier planet and a more sustainable food ecosystem. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Frank Reig, the CEO of Revel, gives us the inside scoop on how he turned his vision into reality, from convincing Texas lawmakers to embrace his ideas to launching a fleet of electric vehicles in the heart of NYC. We're diving into ⁠Revel⁠ – a dynamic startup that's revolutionizing how we move around cities. Starting with their iconic electric mopeds in New York, Revel has grown into a powerhouse, tackling urban electrification head-on. But Revel's story is more than just cool blue Teslas and mopeds whizzing through city streets. Join us as we discuss the ins and outs of building a climate impact company, the evolution from shared mobility to electrification, and the bold bets that paid off. Revel's journey is a story of innovation, persistence, and a deep commitment to a greener future. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Frederic Lalonde is a trailblazer in the tech and climate sectors. As the co-founder of Deep Sky, Lalonde is at the forefront of combating climate change through innovative carbon capture technology. Deep Sky, a state-backed venture, is dedicated to removing gigatons of CO2 from the atmosphere at an unprecedented rate, embodying the belief that with the right people and resources, we can make a lasting impact on our planet. Before his work with Deep Sky, Lalonde co-founded Hopper, a travel app that has transformed the way we plan and book travel, selling $7 billion of travel and travel financial services per year. His journey in the tech world began with Newtrade Technologies, which was acquired by Expedia in 2002, marking the start of a remarkable career that blends technology with a deep commitment to sustainability. In this episode, Lalonde shares his insights on the urgent need for carbon capture solutions. Join us as we explore Frederic Lalonde's inspiring journey from tech entrepreneur to climate innovator. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, Actual, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Jay Kapoor & Vijay Chattha are the founders and general partners of VSC Ventures, a $21M Seed fund focused on industrial automation and climate adaptation startups. In their 50th episode of CLIMB, the duo discuss lessons from the past 49 episodes, which guests surprised them, what advice founders should never ignore as well as sectors and trends that are over and under-hyped in 2023 and beyond. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Lior is an investor, entrepreneur, and the Founder and Managing Partner of Eclipse Ventures, a Palo Alto-based venture firm that recently raised $1.2 billion across two new funds. Eclipse is a team of operators and investors building companies that are disrupting old-line industries. Lior Susan began his journey on a kibbutz and served in the Israeli Special Forces. In 2008, he co-developed Intucell, a software-defined networking solution, leading to its acquisition by Cisco in four years. Prior to launching Eclipse, Lior was Founder and General Partner at LabIX, the hardware investment platform of Flextronics. At LabIX, Lior led investments in companies across: energy storage, wireless/infrastructure, 3-D optics, additive manufacturing, and robotics. Lior founded Eclipse Ventures in 2014 to meet the unique and unmet needs of entrepreneurs building full-stack start-ups. He is particularly excited to work with founders who want to bring the full-stack approach to legacy industries and build digital bridges to the physical world. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠PR agency VSC⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠Ample⁠, ⁠Actual⁠, ⁠Sesame Solar⁠, ⁠Synop⁠, ⁠Vibrant Planet⁠, and ⁠Zume⁠ among many others.

Shane Dyer is the CEO of Irrigreen. Irrigreen designs and manufactures an all-digital sprinkler system that uses software-controlled precision sprinkler heads to deliver water uniformly across your landscape and reduce unnecessary water usage. Shane has an extensive background in technology, especially in IoT development. Before Irrigreen, he was the founder and CEO of Arrayent, an IoT platform used by top brands like Whirlpool and Pentair. He also co-founded Propellerhead Studios, which collaborated with giants like Mattel and Hasbro, and established ActivePhoto Inc., connecting digital cameras to phones and serving clients like Allstate.  He holds a B.Sc. in Computer Systems Engineering from Stanford University. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠PR agency VSC⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠Ample⁠, ⁠Actual⁠, ⁠Sesame Solar⁠, ⁠Synop⁠, ⁠Vibrant Planet⁠, and ⁠Zume⁠ among many others.

Shaun Abrahamson co-founded Third Sphere, dedicated to shaping a post-climate change world through venture investments and founder support. Before Third Sphere, Shaun was an active angel investor, investing in more than 20 firms and 3 unicorns between 2007 and 2013 including ZocDoc, Public, Trialpay, Refinery29, Skycatch, and Tonx. During this time, Shaun also led multiple sustainability-focused projects like Life Edited to design ultra-low GHG apartments in New York City as well as Betacup to cut paper cup waste for Starbucks.  Shaun began venture building at companies like MediaSentry, Starmedia Network, govWorks, and Oculus, with a foundation in climate work from MIT CADLab in 1997.  Shaun has an MBA from the Berlin School of Creative Leadership and a BSc from the University of Cape Town. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Sarthak and Vedant engage in a dynamic conversation that delves into the world of content creation, education, and the nuances of their unique journeys. From the moment Sarthak discovered Vedant's channel to their thoughts on the role of psychology in content creation, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of two influential content creators. Listeners will gain insights into: - Sarthak's disciplined content creation schedule, his dedicated team, and the driving force behind his remarkable effort. - They'll explore topics ranging from the Apple vs. Samsung debate to the challenges of starting from scratch and maintaining consistency in the ever-evolving digital landscape. The episode also touches on personal interests, such as leisure activities, favorite shows, and reading habits, providing a well-rounded view of these creators' lives. As Sarthak and Vedant dissect their writing styles, audience engagement techniques, and podcasting approaches, aspiring content creators and enthusiasts alike will find valuable takeaways. If you're looking to uncover the secrets of successful content creation, gain insights into the minds of two prolific YouTubers, and discover intriguing discussions on a wide array of topics, this episode is a must-listen. It's an engaging, insightful, and entertaining journey through the world of digital content creation and beyond. Don't miss out on the wealth of insights and engaging conversations in this episode! If you found this discussion with Sarthak and Vedant as fascinating as we did, be sure to hit that "Like" button, share this episode with your friends, and subscribe to our channel. And mark your calendar, because we release new episodes every Friday at 7 PM. Join us then for more thought-provoking discussions and inspiring stories from the world of content creation. Your support means the world to us, and we can't wait to have you back for our next episode! #storieswithrusty #sundayshow #podcast #hindipodcast __ In this episode 0:00 // How Sarthak discovered Vedant's channel 1:00 // Sarthak's political Content, role in Deshbhakt and Sunday Show Inspiration 4:10 // Do people read newspapers? 6:00 // Interest in educating students 7:04 // Sarthak's and Vedant's education 7:30 // Psychology and its role in content creation 9:30 // Interest in Nutrition? 10:35 // Sarthak's content creation schedule and meeting new people 13:10 // Sarthak's content team 13:41 // Why put so much effort into content? 15:00 // Why Sarthak started his YouTube channel? 16:05 // Apple vs Samsung debate 18:35 // Vedant is against EMI 19:19 // Starting from scratch and being consistent 22:52 // Living Life Abroad 26:28 // Leisure time and living with roommates 29:40 // Jay Kapoor's content 30:40 // Sarthak's way of content research and writing 40:12 // Who does Vedant watch? 44:06 // Books, Reading habits, 75 Hard, Hindi Comics 52:11 // Sarthak's Workspace 52:59 // Love for Cricket 57:00 // Team and responsibilities 58:31 // Problems with News channels 1:03:51 // Business, Brands and Creator Collaborations 1:08:56 // Understanding YouTube Analytics, SEO and Evergreen content 1:15:10 // Podcasts and conversations 1:17:12 // Raj Shamani v/s Beer Biceps, interview podcasts v/s conversational podcasts 1:18:43 // Vlogging 1:22:14 // More Leisure content, Netflix shows and documentaries 1:23:01 // How I met your mother, The Office and Despising F.R.I.E.N.D.S 1:25:55 // Free Internet and movie preferences 1:33:30 // Analyzing writing styles - hooks, Emotional curve, and Relatable content for the audience 1:37:39 // Vedant's way of podcasting 1:38:20 // Message for Audience __ // Let's Connect If you're the Instagram type, https://instagram.com/storieswithrusty If you're the Twitter type, https://twitter.com/rustystories

Sarah Applebaum serves as a Partner at Pangaea Ventures. Pangaea Ventures is an unparalleled hard-tech investor that invests in firms utilizing the latest breakthroughs in materials science, chemistry and biology to solve many of society's most pressing issues Sarah brings almost a decade of venture capital and company building experience to the team. Sarah has cultivated expertise in building entrepreneurial teams, scaling early stage ventures, and venture financing. Sarah is an active mentor to early-stage entrepreneurs and a startup community activator and advocate. Sarah led Pangaea's investments into pH7, PolySpectra and Correlia Biosystems. Sarah holds a Bsc. From Dalhousie University and an MBA from the Schulich School of Business. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Valerie Shen is Partner and Chief Operating Officer at G2 Venture Partners, where she oversees all operational aspects of the firm and fund including fundraising /LP relations, recruiting / HR, fund administration, impact reporting, legal, compliance, and marketing. Prior to business school, Valerie was an analyst at Kleiner Perkins' $1B Green Growth Fund, where she helped the team found G2. Before that she was a management consultant at McKinsey & Company, where she worked across four continents, primarily on energy projects.  She has also held positions at the U.S. Senate, X (Google's “moonshot factory”), Goldman Sachs, Jane Street Capital, and The Wilderness Society. Valerie holds a B.A. degree summa cum laude in Environmental Science & Public Policy and Earth & Planetary Sciences from Harvard University. She holds an M.B.A. and M.S. in Environment and Resources from Stanford University, where she was a Siebel Scholar and an Arjay Miller Scholar. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Molly is the Founder and CEO of Molly Wood Media, an independent journalism and investing firm focused on climate solutions. She is also an angel investor and scout for the climate investment firm Amasia, and was previously a managing director at LAUNCH, where she also co-hosted the podcast This Week in Startups.  Molly Wood is a veteran of national media (Marketplace on National Public Radio, the New York Times, and CBS Interactive) and began covering climate tech in 2018. At Marketplace, she created and launched a reporting series and documentary podcast called How We Survive, looking at the business opportunities and technologies aimed at combating climate change. At Molly Wood Media, Molly is combining both career paths into one company. Her new podcast, Everybody in the Pool, is accompanied by a newsletter of the same name. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Vaughn Blake is a partner at Blue Bear Capital with a focus on the renewal energy industry. He is specifically focused on themes and opportunities where policy and technology catalysts interconnect. Prior to Blue Bear, Vaughn managed a portfolio of emerging and esoteric hedge fund and venture capital fund strategies at a Southern California-based Family Office. He is the founder and managing director of Autochrome Ventures, an early-stage venture firm investing in frontier technologies applied at industrial and enterprise scale. He currently holds board positions at Emerge, Transect, Mira, and First Resonance. Vaughn received his Bachelor of Arts from Colorado College. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠PR agency VSC⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠Ample⁠, ⁠Actual⁠, ⁠Sesame Solar⁠, ⁠Synop⁠, ⁠Vibrant Planet⁠, and ⁠Zume⁠ among many others.

Tommy Stadlen is a technology entrepreneur and bestselling author. He is the Co-Founder of Giant Ventures.   Giant builds and backs purpose-driven technology companies solving the world's biggest challenges. They champion entrepreneurs in creating a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient planet. Giant is a multi-stage, thesis-driven firm based in London, LA, and Copenhagen. Previous to Giant Ventures, he was the Co-Founder of Swing Technologies, which exited to Microsoft in November 2017.  Tommy is a former McKinsey consultant with global experience advising companies and governments. He previously worked for President Obama.  Tommy is also the co-author of the international bestseller ‘Connect: How Companies Succeed by Engaging Radically With Society', written with former BP CEO Lord Browne. He appears regularly in the media and at conferences as a commentator on business, technology, and sustainability.  Tommy graduated with First Class honors from Oxford and holds an MSc (Distinction) from the London School of Economics. He is an advisor to NYU Stern School of Business and a One Young World Ambassador. Tommy has been recognized by the Financial Times as one of the top 50 Global Ally Executives and by Entrepreneur magazine's Best Entrepreneurial Companies in America awards. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Shomik Dutta is a dynamic force in the climate investment landscape. As the Co-Founder and General Partner of Higher Ground Labs venture fund, he brings a unique blend of experience and expertise to the table. With a background in private equity renewable energy,  Shomik has a deep understanding of sustainable solutions. His journey has been nothing short of remarkable, having served as an Obama White House aide and contributing his skills to the Obama ‘08 & ‘12 campaigns. Shomik's advisory role to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski further underscores his commitment to meaningful change. Prior to his impactful roles in climate advocacy, he honed his financial acumen through his work at Morgan Stanley investment banking. With a trailblazing career spanning multiple arenas, Shomik is a driving force behind the intersection of innovation, policy, and investment in the pursuit of a greener future. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Abe Murray is a visionary founder, accomplished builder, and distinguished product engineering lead with a remarkable track record in the tech industry. Currently serving as a General Partner at AlleyCorp Robotics, Abe leverages his expertise to drive innovation and excellence in the field of robotics and technology. Abe was previously a product and engineering leader at Alphabet. He launched Play Books and Magazines at Android, delivered $XXXM in business while building the Verily Life Science product teams and Boston office, and shipped AI /ML/computer vision across Google while building the Google Research product team. Before Google, he built a Web 2.0 startup and worked on UAVs in the defense industry.  Abe has some shiny degrees (HBS MBA, WPI MS EE, URI BS Comp Eng) but says he learned the most when he dropped out of high school to run fishing boats and factory lines in the family aquaculture business. In his free time, Abe enjoys being a parent and partner, building all kinds of things with his kids, and staying as healthy as he's able. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Ryan Gembala is a pre-seed and seed-stage technology investor & founder of Pathbreaker Ventures. As founder of one of the first deep tech funds in Silicon Valley, he is focused on solving complex global problems through novel hardware-software systems. In 2023, Ryan was named one of the Top 100 Seed Investors by Business Insider. Prior to starting Pathbreaker, Ryan was a deal lead on the corporate development team at Facebook where he worked with product and engineering teams to landscape technology ecosystems and execute acquisitions in pursuit of Facebook's mission. Acquisitions worked on include Oculus, PrivateCore, LiveRail, Teehan Lax, and NimbleVR. Emerging areas of technology were his focus, including AI/ML, deep learning, computer vision, virtual reality, applied hardware, and infrastructure technologies across security, video, messaging, and product design. Prior to Facebook, Ryan worked in both investing and operating roles at Azure Capital, an early-stage venture capital firm with $750 million under management. In addition to series A & B investing, he worked within portfolio companies as VP of Business Development & Partnerships at Telly, the video discovery & content network, and at Convercent, the SAAS leader in employee governance, risk, and compliance.  Ryan is the co-founder of H.E.R.O. for Children, the first non-profit focused on quality of life care for children affected by HIV/AIDS. Ryan built HERO to $1 million in revenue and 2,000 volunteers. In 2019, HERO celebrated its 16th Anniversary, and Ryan continues to serve on the Board.  Ryan earned his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business where he focused on finance, entrepreneurship, and early stage technology investing. While in business school, he and his team won the International Venture Capital Investment Competition (VCIC) out of 56 MBA programs.  Ryan speaks Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian and loves exploring new topics, countries, and foods. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Jay Kapoor is the General Partner of VSC Ventures, an offshoot of the internationally lauded PR firm VSC. As a seasoned investor Jay, who spent the last decade advising teams and athletes in the NFL, NBA and other major US sports, is now entrenched in the climate world- he hosts the climate pod Climb which you can check out here. Money is important to building a sustainable solution. So is policy, advocacy, corporate responsibility, personal accountability, technology, and collaboration. No one solution or tactic will provide a silver bullet to creating a sustainable solution. The unifying thread that binds them all together, and makes the sum greater than the parts: storytelling. Jay works with his companies to develop a narrative that will supercharge their ability to attract and enrapture customers. By leveraging their PR prowess VSC is able to provide exposure, craft narratives, and make the problem of climate change feel personal through the companies they support. Todays episode is sponsored by See Change Sessions: Join a global crew of adventurous minds to solve some of the worlds biggest problems . For more information about their upcoming session in Vermont, September 12-14, check out their website here: https://www.seechangesessions.com/

Michael DeLucia  is the Sector Lead for Climate Investing at Wellington, an investment management firm with over $1 trillion assets under management. Before joining Wellington Management in 2021, Mike was a founding partner at ⁠Sidewalk Infrastructure Partners⁠ (SIP), where he led all aspects of the investment process for companies and projects in the infrastructure technology space, focusing.  Prior to joining Wellington Management in 2021, Mike was a founding partner at Sidewalk Infrastructure Partners (SIP), where he led all aspects of the investment process for companies and projects in the infrastructure technology space, with a focus on investments in the energy transition and the built environment. SIP is a spin-off of Alphabet's cities-of-the-future arm, Sidewalk Labs, where he worked as associate director, of investments.  He was also previously a vice president in the Energy Markets Division of Macquarie Group, investing directly in the energy and power sectors. Mike began financing energy companies as a project finance analyst at HSH Nordbank, then as an investment associate at Nereus Capital.  Mike holds a B.A. in philosophy and economics from Brown University. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness. We are bringing that expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

David McColl is currently the Executive Director of Stanford Climate Ventures and is a Graduate Research Fellow at the Steyer-Taylor Center for Energy Policy & Finance. He is also a Partner at Echelon, an early-stage venture capital firm, and its affiliate Shoreline Capital. David received a B.S. in Management Science & Engineering and an M.S. in Energy Resources Engineering from Stanford University. He is a nationally-ranked beach volleyball player. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness. We are bringing that expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Nazlican Goksu is a Design Director at IDEO, the design studio behind breakout products like Apple's first usable mouse, the Simplisafe Security System, and Ford's next-gen vehicles. She has collaborated and supported the launch of IDEO's Climate Portfolio, where she leads a team of designers in building products, services, and ventures that help advance climate goals. Sustainability, climate action, and circular design are all passion areas for her, and she believes design can play a critical role in addressing today's global challenges. Before joining IDEO, she co-founded her own design studio in New York which she successfully ran for four years. Her background in Design Research and Industrial Design has helped her develop a deep understanding of the design process and the importance of human-centered design.  She earned her B.A. in Product Design from Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London and Post Baccalaureate Program in Human Sciences at Columbia University.  About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠⁠PR agency VSC⁠⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠⁠Ample⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Actual⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Sesame Solar⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Synop⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Vibrant Planet⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠Zume⁠⁠ among many others.

Shawn Xu is a venture capitalist and current Chief of Staff at Lowercarbon Capital. Shawn believes in audacious founders and bold solutions to the climate crisis and we wanted to have him on CLIMB because he's not just an investor; he's also a relentless builder helping to expand Lowercarbon's platform and founder products. Shawn has personally partnered with ~50 companies to date and brings with him a wealth of knowledge on helping founders go zero to one, from ideation to product-market fit. As a Partner at On Deck's venture fund and accelerator, he successfully backed companies in over 20 countries, earning a perfect founder NPS of 100. Prior stints at Floodgate and First Round Capital's Dorm Room Fund propelled him into Forbes' 30 Under 30 for Venture Capital. Before his investing career, Shawn was a startup executive leading international expansion for companies like Square. His commitment to social impact led him to serve as a tech policy advisor to California Governor Gavin Newsom. A Silicon Valley native, Shawn earned his MBA/MA in International Affairs from Wharton and the Lauder Institute at the University of Pennsylvania after completing his undergraduate studies at UC San Diego. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠PR agency VSC⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠Ample⁠, ⁠Actual⁠, ⁠Sesame Solar⁠, ⁠Synop⁠, ⁠Vibrant Planet⁠, and ⁠Zume⁠ among many others.

Sophie Purdom is a leading climate venture capitalist at Planeteer Capital, specializing in early-stage climate tech startups. Sophie's passion for climate and innovation is also expressed through her highly popular newsletter, Climate Tech VC. With a community of over 50,000 subscribers, she explores cutting-edge advancements in climate technology and sustainable innovation. Her diverse experience includes launching an ESG fund, strategy development at Bain & Co., publishing a book on sustainable investing, and co-founding a successful agricultural tech company that raised more than $65 million. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠PR agency VSC⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠Ample⁠, ⁠Actual⁠, ⁠Sesame Solar⁠, ⁠Synop⁠, ⁠Vibrant Planet⁠, and ⁠Zume⁠ among many others.

Rachel Beals is a seasoned writer and editor with over two decades of expertise. She is currently the Assistant Managing Editor and Lead Climate Writer at MarketWatch.  Over a 25-year career, Rachel has covered traditional commodities markets, alternative energy and the major global conferences on emissions and biodiversity. She's also written on a range of investing and personal finance topics. Rachel originated two columns at MarketWatch aimed at helping investors, retirees and homeowners plan for global warming and a more sustainable future: Living With Climate Change and The Upcycler. As she continues to analyze and articulate the pressing climate issues of our time, Rachel's insights have become an indispensable resource for her readers at MarketWatch and beyond. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠PR agency VSC⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠Ample⁠, ⁠Actual⁠, ⁠Sesame Solar⁠, ⁠Synop⁠, ⁠Vibrant Planet⁠, and ⁠Zume⁠ among many others.

Arvind Gupta co-leads Mayfield's engineering biology practice and is Founder and Venture Advisor at IndieBio. He was the first investor in breakout bio companies such as Geltor, Synthex, Prime Roots, NotCo, Prellis, New Culture, DNA Lite and Memphis Meats. As Founder of IndieBio, Arvind redefined the pace and possibilities of early stage biotech, investing in over 136 companies in five years, defining human and planetary health, and growing the IndieBio portfolio into billions of dollars in value. Prior to founding IndieBio, Arvind was Design Director at IDEO in Shanghai where he earned numerous international design awards. He is also a co-author of Decoding the World: A Roadmap for the Questioner, and a frequent speaker at TechCrunch Disrupt, Slush, TedX and Future FoodTech. He received his B.S. in Genetic Engineering from UCSB. He holds 8 patents. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠PR agency VSC⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠Ample⁠, ⁠Actual⁠, ⁠Sesame Solar⁠, ⁠Synop⁠, ⁠Vibrant Planet⁠, and ⁠Zume⁠ among many others.

Ian Rountree is the Founder & General Partner of Cantos Ventures, a San Francisco-based venture capital firm with $90M under management dedicated to backing deeply technical founders at inception across climate tech, computational biology, aerospace, and next-generation computing. Ian started making angel investments in 2012 while on the early teams at SoFi Bank and then Invisible Technologies. He founded Cantos in 2016 to continue backing world-positive startups at pre-seed & seed stage.  In September 2022 they raised $50M for their third fund to invest in “near frontier” startups, which have the potential to mitigate climate change, disease, armed conflict, poverty, and existential risk on a global scale. About VSC Ventures: For 20 years, our award-winning ⁠PR agency VSC⁠ has worked with innovative startups on positioning, messaging, and awareness and we are bringing that same expertise to help climate startups with storytelling and narrative building. Last year, general partners Vijay Chattha and Jay Kapoor raised a $21M fund to co-invest in the most promising startups alongside leading climate funds. Through the conversations on our show CLIMB by VSC, we're excited to share what we're doing at VSC and VSC Ventures on climate innovation with companies like ⁠Ample⁠, ⁠Actual⁠, ⁠Sesame Solar⁠, ⁠Synop⁠, ⁠Vibrant Planet⁠, and ⁠Zume⁠ among many others.