Podcasts about VC

This Week In Startups is made possible by:Northwest Registered Agent- https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twistVanta - http://www.vanta.com/twistLemon IO - https://lemon.io/twistToday's show: Jason's already a millionaire many times over… but what are the huge, blockbuster, dream purchases that he's still holding off on? BESIDES the private jet we all know he wants? The Noti Gang has asked, and JCal finally answers, on a holiday TWiST where we're taking questions from viewers and fans.Check out the episode for lots more intriguing queries, like how to push forward and glean useful information when your first customers aren't using your product the way you'd envisioned. Plus, is there room for both AI agents and great SaaS startups in the coming years? Hear why Jason thinks there IS.AND we've got the very last Gamma Pitch Deck Competition entry before we announce our winner in the new year. Check out AskHumans, an innovative approach to improving market research.Timestamps: (00:00) On a special holiday TWiST, we're answering YOUR pressing Founder Questions!(8:35) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(09:35) What should a founder do when a VC reaches out cold?(13:37) The importance of maintaining “ball control”(15:35) A European founder asks: Should I take European investments if they're targeting American customers?(19:47) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(20:51) A member of the Noti gang asks for JCal's dream mega-purchases(24:12) Why Jason thinks there's room for BOTH AI agents and great SaaS companies(27:18) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://lemon.io/twist(28:23) It's our final Gamma pitch with Zak from AskHumans!(29:24) How AskHumans uses AI to improve on marketing surveys and research(34:33) Management and measurement were designed before computers could understand language… why this matters.(35:48) Why no one ever wants to give feedback in a video(39:01) Why Zak's pitch is “two chapters of the same story”… and was this a pivot?(44:14) Why founders need to assume LLMs are going to get exponentially better*Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com/Check out the TWIST500: https://twist500.comSubscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp*Follow Lon:X: https://x.com/lons*Follow Alex:X: https://x.com/alexLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/*Follow Jason:X: https://twitter.com/JasonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis/*Thank you to our partners:(8:35) Northwest Registered Agent - Form your entire business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes. Get more privacy, more options, and more done—visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist today!(19:47) Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist(27:18) Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://lemon.io/twistGreat TWIST interviews: Will Guidarahttps://youtu.be/pvJa2pzuXWQEoghan McCabehttps://youtu.be/9dHN4YFkgv4Steve Huffmanhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reddit-ceo-steve-huffman-on-mod-revolt-building-a/id315114957?i=1000617333424Brian Cheskyhttps://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/airbnb-ceo-brian-chesky-on-early-rejection-customer/id315114957?i=1000611761112Bob Moestahttps://youtu.be/y2UMzSqX94QAaron Leviehttps://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/box-ceo-aaron-levie-breaks-down-box-ai-and-generative/id315114957?i=1000612384545Sophia Amorusohttps://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/sophia-amoruso-on-branding-raising-a-fund-portfolio/id315114957?i=1000601352978

Space startups today look a lot like the internet in 1995 – early, chaotic, and packed with upside for the founders brave enough to build in the void. With VCs going all in on space, Techstars betting big on the category, and an entire industry quietly taking over venture capital, this is a moment founders can't ignore.In this episode of Demo Day, Techstars Space Managing Director Gabriel Schlumberger breaks down why “SPACE IS THE FUTURE” is more than a catchy thumbnail – it's an actual investing thesis. Gabriel explains how launch costs, new business models, and a surge of satellites are turning space into one of the most important frontier markets for startups and venture capital.Gabriel shares his journey from Pixar, Blue Sky, and Disney to becoming a founder himself, building an FDA‑regulated glasses startup for kids in the middle of a global pandemic, and then stepping into his role at Techstars Space. That experience across creative studios, corporate innovation, and true zero‑to‑one startup chaos shapes how he now evaluates founders and why he's so bullish on space companies.You'll learn:Why space today feels like the internet did in 1995, and what that means for startup timing and upside.How Techstars is betting big on space through its accelerator with NASA JPL and the U.S. Space Force.The trait Gabriel calls “pathological curiosity” and why it separates the best founders and VCs.What actually happens inside Techstars: mentor weeks, “give first” culture, and how a few teams get picked from hundreds of applicants.A real founder story: running a hardware and medical device startup through COVID, fundraising, manufacturing, and brutal unknowns.Whether you're a founder thinking about space, a SaaS builder curious about frontier markets, or an investor trying to understand the industry quietly taking over VC, this episode is a masterclass in how the next decade of startups will be built.

Pete Syme interviews Andrea Lamparini from WeRoad, a hybrid tech company and tour operator that's rewriting the rules of group travel for millennials and Gen Z. The conversation reveals how WeRoad has achieved exceptional growth by building a community-first model where strangers become friends through small group experiences, using travel coordinators instead of traditional guides, operating as a curated marketplace where top coordinators design their own trips, and leveraging technology to scale operations with one-third of their 200-person team dedicated to tech. Andrea shares how they maintain quality with 4,000+ casual travel coordinators who each lead just one trip per year, why they leave 30-40% of each itinerary unstructured for group decision-making, how their supply model works across 68-70 DMCs globally, and why they're expanding into B2B channels including travel agencies, employee benefit programs, and corporate partnerships that already represent 17-18% of revenue. The discussion covers their VC backing (rare for a tour operator), plans for US expansion in 2026, the power of their We Meet app hosting 50,000 community members at events this year, and Andrea's key lesson learned: curating their marketplace offering earlier would have prevented the conversion drop caused by overwhelming choice.Top Ten Takeaways1. Travel Coordinators Work Alongside Local GuidesWeRoad uses travel coordinators who are the same age as travelers, depart from the same home country, and focus on facilitating group dynamics rather than delivering local expertise. Local guides are still included for museums, parks, and other sites where specialized knowledge is needed. Travel coordinators create WhatsApp groups one month before departure, balance introverted and extroverted personalities, and coordinate the 30-40% of unstructured time built into every itinerary. WeRoad has 4,000+ coordinators working casual contracts with a commitment of just one trip per year.2. Quality at Scale Without Full-Time StaffCoordinators go through online applications, webinars, group interviews, and a final boot camp weekend with 100 candidates. Most visit destinations for the first time, but rigorous hiring and training ensure consistency. Local DMC partners provide backup if logistics fail. Top performers can become "producers" who design and scout their own trips.3. Groups Decide 30-40% of Their Itinerary in Real TimeAccommodations, transport, and core experiences are fixed, but dinners, half-days, and optional activities are decided by the group during the trip based on their interests and budget. Travel coordinators provide options and handle bookings with local partners, personalizing the experience to match group energy.4. A Curated Marketplace Scales the Portfolio 5xWeRoad's internal team creates 200 itineraries while travel producers create 1,000+ more. This model scaled their catalog 5x without adding internal headcount. All producers use standardized supply agreements ensuring every DMC meets centralized requirements for safety, insurance, compliance, and capacity.5. Supply Quality Is Non-NegotiableWeRoad works with 68-70 DMCs globally, visits partner sites, and monitors quality constantly. The rule is simple: mess up once or twice and you're out. Because each group makes different choices during unstructured time, suppliers must be flexible enough to support varied activities in every destination.6. Community Extends Beyond Travel Through We MeetThe We Meet app hosts 10,000+ events across Europe where 50,000 people connected this year. Travel coordinators organize pottery classes, running groups, hiking, pub quizzes, and weekend trips in their home cities. This keeps...

This week on Hustleshare, host Ron Baetiong sits down with tech pioneer Dado Banatao, alongside Maria Banatao of the Phildev Foundation, to trace the journey that earned him the title “Bill Gates of the Philippines”—from a rural barrio to engineering school, Boeing, and Silicon Valley. They also dive into Dado's semiconductor breakthroughs, early entrepreneurial setbacks, and the VC framework he now uses to support the next generation of Filipino founders.Resources:LinkedIn (Dado Banatao): https://www.linkedin.com/in/dado-banatao-96ba89b7/LinkedIn (Maria Banatao): https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-banatao-49721a38/Website (PhilDev): https://www.phildev.org/Links/Sponsors:OneCFO: https://www.onecfoph.co/PLDT Enterprise: https://pldtenterprise.com- MSME Fiberbiz - https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-ROId-nbsi-fiberbiz - 5G SIM Only - https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-ROId-nbsi-smart-postpaid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the year winds down, I want to share an end-of-year message for practical SaaS founders who want to make better progress in 2026. Based on my recent conversations with more than 40 CEOs in my Practical Founders peer groups, it's clear that growth rates alone don't define whether it was a "good" year. Founders experienced very different outcomes—and very different feelings about them. In this episode, I walk through five practical questions I believe founders should ask as they look ahead to 2026 (or their next quarter). These questions focus on whether you're working on the right hard things, what you're deliberately changing next, what help you actually need, whether you have enough cushion in the business, and the story you're telling yourself and your team about progress. This isn't about templates, quick-fixes, hype, or perfect planning. It's about making steady progress on the hardest, most important things in your business—while staying independent and resilient.  Success isn't final and failure isn't fatal. What matters is whether you keep going—and keep making progress. If you're still here, still building, still learning—you're doing something right. I respect practical founders who choose independence, solve real problems, and do hard things year after year. Key Takeaways Progress Over Growth Rates - What matters is whether you moved the hardest, most important parts of your business. Focus Is a Force Multiplier - Trying many things without concentration is why most initiatives stall. Companies Mirror Their Founders - The company's strengths and weaknesses often mirror the founder's. Cushion Creates Resilience - Cash, energy, and upsides protect businesses when headwinds inevitably appear. You Make It Up - How you frame last year's results shapes decisions, morale, and alignment. Quote from Greg Head, founder of Practical Founders "Everybody's doing really hard things who are practical startup founders. I know you are too. The question isn't about what the perfect growth rate or planning process is for you right now. The question is, are you lined up to actually do enough of the most important hard things in your business next year? Are you really set up to make the kind of progress you want along the bigger vision you have for the company? There are all kinds of ways to do it. You can go fast or slow, or it could be an invest year, a rebuild year, or a steady year. You can choose your growth rate, your profitability, and all of that.  "You get to do it your way. You've bought your independence, or you are paying for it the hard way. There's no one right way to do all of this, if you're making big progress and getting better every year in the eyes of your customers, employees, and the owners." Links Greg Head on LinkedIn Practical Founders on LinkedIn Practical Founder website Podcast Sponsor – Cypress Growth Capital This podcast is sponsored by Cypress Growth Capital, an alternative to equity, royalty-based growth capital provides funding in exchange for a fixed percentage of your company's future monthly revenues. Learn more at https://www.cypressgrowthcapital.com/ The Practical Founders Podcast Tune into the Practical Founders Podcast for weekly in-depth interviews with founders who have built valuable software companies without big funding. Subscribe to the Practical Founders Podcast using your favorite podcast app or view on our YouTube channel. Get the weekly Practical Founders newsletter and podcast updates at practicalfounders.com. Practical Founders CEO Peer Groups Be part of a committed and confidential group of practical founders creating valuable software companies without big VC funding.  A Practical Founders Peer Group is a committed and confidential group of founders/CEOs who want to help you succeed on your terms. Each Practical Founders Peer Group is personally curated and moderated by Greg Head.

מהדורת מוסף מארחת את אסף חורש שותף מנהל בקרן Vintage Investment Partners, כמובן יחד עם  עמית קרפ (Bessemer Venture Partners), ברק שוסטר (Battery Ventures) וינאי אורון (Vertex Ventures Israel).אסף חושף בשיחה פתוחה את הנתונים המעודכנים ביותר על תעשיית ההייטק וההון סיכון בשנת 2025. בפרק אנחנו מנתחים את תופעת ריכוזיות ההון, בה חצי מהכסף הגלובלי מושקע באחוז קטן של חברות ענק, דנים במירוץ החימוש של OpenAI ואנתרופיק, ומסבירים מדוע ישראל רושמת את שנות השיא שלה במיזוגים ורכישות (M&A) דווקא תחת מלחמה. השיחה עוסקת במכפילים בשוק הציבורי, בשינוי האסטרטגיה של קרנות ה-VC, ובשאלה האם יזמים ישראלים מצליחים להדביק את הקצב של מהפכת הבינה המלאכותית מול ענקיות הטכנולוגיה בארה"ב.(00:00) - פתיחה: כנס וינטג' ומבט על השוק(05:50) - רכבת ההרים של ה-VC: 2020 עד 2025(09:14) - ריכוזיות ההון: למה הכסף הולך למעט קרנות?(23:55) - הדינמיקה של גיוסי הון בישראל מול ארה"ב(37:40) - מהפכת ה-AI: חברות שמגיעות למיליארד דולר בשנה(47:20) - שוק ה-M&A הישראלי: למה זרים קונים פה בשיא המלחמה?

Diesmal geht es um militärische Fluggebiete, u.a. welche Arten es gibt und wie sie aktiviert oder deaktiviert werden. Wer ist für diese Gebiete verantwortlich und welche Koordination findet zwischen ziviler und militärischer Flugsicherung sowie den Nutzern statt? Dafür haben Michael Kuppe (GdF) und Moritz Bürger (VC) zwei Experten eingeladen, die es wissen müssen: Deniz fliegt einen Eurofighter für die Bundeswehr und Max Scholz (GdF) ist Centerlotse mit Berechtigungen für Sektoren, die viele militärische Lufträume enthalten. Sie verraten uns außerdem, was ein Alpha Scramble ist und wie der abläuft.Habt ihr noch weitere Fragen zu militärischem Flugbetrieb oder interessiert euch ein anderes Thema? Dann schreibt uns gerne eine Mail an podcast@readyoufive.de.Wir wünschen euch ruhige Tage zwischen den Jahren und alles Gute für das neue Jahr!

Aliett Buttelman spent eight years grinding in the dark before a single viral moment with Taylor Swift turned Fazit into an overnight seven-figure brand. In this interview, Aliett breaks down the exact pivot that saved the company, how she identified product-market fit after years of plateauing at $20K per month, and the organic social strategy that now generates over half a million views every day. From bootstrapping with $13K to navigating 100+ investor rejections and finally securing mass retail with Target, this is the blueprint for building a breakout CPG brand in one of the most competitive beauty markets. What you'll learn in this interview: • How a single Taylor Swift appearance drove seven-figure sales in 48 hours • How Aliett pivoted from slow-growth acne patches to viral makeup patches • The social content framework that produces daily 500K+ view videos • Why aspirational products can outperform problem-solving products • How to bootstrap a CPG brand with limited capital and no agency support • The exact moment Fazit discovered true product-market fit • Why Fazit chose Amazon as a primary channel (and how it paid off) • The dangers of taking bad retail deals and why most founders miss this • Lessons from 100+ VC rejections and how to know when not to raise • The behind-the-scenes strategy that secured a 1,000-store Target rollout By the end of this episode, you'll understand how to build a lean, viral-ready brand, validate demand fast, and prepare for the “overnight” moment that can change everything — even if it takes years of grit and persistence to get there. SAVE 50% ON OMNISEND FOR 3 MONTHS Get 50% off your first 3 months of email and SMS marketing with Omnisend with the code FOUNDR50. Just head to ⁠⁠https://your.omnisend.com/foundr⁠⁠ to get started. HOW WE CAN HELP YOU SCALE YOUR BUSINESS FASTER Learn directly from 7, 8 & 9-figure founders inside Foundr+ Start your $1 trial → ⁠⁠https://www.foundr.com/startdollartrial⁠⁠ PREFER A CUSTOM ROADMAP AND 1-ON-1 COACHING? → Starting from scratch? Apply here → ⁠⁠https://foundr.com/pages/coaching-start-application⁠⁠ → Already have a store? Apply here → ⁠⁠https://foundr.com/pages/coaching-growth-application⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH NATHAN CHAN Instagram → ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/nathanchan⁠⁠ LinkedIn → ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanhchan/⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH ALIETT BUTTELMAN Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/fazitbeauty/?hl=en LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliett-buttelman-9a662312b/ Fazit Website → https://fazitbeauty.com/ FOLLOW FOUNDR FOR MORE BUSINESS GROWTH STRATEGIES YouTube → ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/2uyvzdt⁠⁠ Website → ⁠⁠https://www.foundr.com⁠⁠ Instagram → ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/foundr/⁠⁠ Facebook → ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/foundr⁠⁠ Twitter → ⁠⁠https://www.twitter.com/foundr⁠⁠ LinkedIn → ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/foundr/⁠⁠ Podcast → ⁠⁠https://www.foundr.com/podcast

2025，我们是不是已经走进了一个临界时代？ 这一年，暖水珊瑚礁跨越了热力临界点，世界最大的冰山 A23a 解体，曾经被认为没有蚊子的冰岛也出现了嗡嗡声…… 极端气候之外，这一年，全球范围内的紧张局势持续发酵：从贸易摩擦到政治分歧，从民族到国家，人类社会中不同层面的对立似乎并未缓解，反而在一些地方变得更加尖锐。 而宏大叙事之下，身为普通人的我们，也依然要在自己具体而真实的生活中不停地应对变化、做出选择。 和过去五年一样，我们将 2025 的故事浓缩进了这一枚声音胶囊。这里收录了过去这一年，从个体到时代，那些值得被记住和珍藏的声音。期待这期节目能够说出一部分你今年的情绪和回忆，并陪伴你走向新的生活。 和往年一样，你也可以在微信公众号里找到这期「声音时光胶囊」，欢迎把它分享给更多人！你也可以在文章里找到 2020–2024 年的声音时光胶囊，慢慢回听。 公众号链接：https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/pbmnLTI-px-jy9hItxAXWg 幕后制作 制作统筹：赛德 后期统筹：沁茗 编辑：徐涛、 Mengyi 后期制作：幸倍、迪卡普里鑫 监制：可宣、 yaxian 素材收集：Stella 、马琳、 babs 、星斗 宣发：beibei 、 babs、George 、 KTzhou 、星斗 给声东击西投稿 「声东击西」一直在寻找来自不同社会和群体的真实声音。我们曾经采访过为特朗普竞选生产 MAGA 帽子的中国制造商、记录过七位在美国大选中经历起伏的华人个体，也讲述了签证突然被取消的在美留学生的故事。 如果你也有一些特别的经历、观察或想法，不论是亲身体验的故事，还是你在某个行业、社区中的所见所闻，都欢迎你向我们投稿。 你的声音可能出现在未来的节目当中，我们非常期待你的分享！ 投稿入口 (https://eg76rdcl6g.feishu.cn/share/base/form/shrcne1CGVaSeJwtBriW6yNT2dg) 你也可以直接通过邮箱直接联系节目组：kexuan@shengfm.cn 加入我们 声动活泼目前开放【商业发展经理、节目监制，早咖啡实习生、商业实习生和运营实习生】岗位，详情点击招聘入口：加入声动活泼（在招职位速览） (https://eg76rdcl6g.feishu.cn/docx/XO6bd12aGoI4j0xmAMoc4vS7nBh)，点击相应链接即可查看岗位详情及投递指南。 招聘 https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/8/8dd8a56f-9636-415a-8c00-f9ca6778e511/1TCNqViU.jpg 商务合作 声动活泼商业化小队，点击链接可直达商务会客厅（商务会客厅链接：https://sourl.cn/QDhnEc ），也可发送邮件至 business@shengfm.cn 联系我们。 关于声动活泼 「用声音碰撞世界」，声动活泼致力于为人们提供源源不断的思考养料。 我们还有这些播客：不止金钱（2024 全新发布） (https://www.xiaoyuzhoufm.com/podcast/65a625966d045a7f5e0b5640)、跳进兔子洞第三季（2024 全新发布） (https://www.xiaoyuzhoufm.com/podcast/666c0ad1c26e396a36c6ee2a)、声东击西 (https://etw.fm/episodes)、声动早咖啡 (https://sheng-espresso.fireside.fm/)、What's Next｜科技早知道 (https://guiguzaozhidao.fireside.fm/episodes)、反潮流俱乐部 (https://fanchaoliuclub.fireside.fm/)、泡腾 VC (https://popvc.fireside.fm/)、商业WHY酱 (https://msbussinesswhy.fireside.fm/) 欢迎在即刻 (https://okjk.co/Qd43ia)、微博等社交媒体上与我们互动，搜索 声动活泼 即可找到我们。 也欢迎你写邮件和我们联系，邮箱地址是：ting@sheng.fm 获取更多和声动活泼有关的讯息，你也可以扫码添加声小音，在节目之外和我们保持联系！ 声东击西 https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/8/8dd8a56f-9636-415a-8c00-f9ca6778e511/wEYE7jJa.jpg

BONUS: Breaking Through The Organizational Immune System - Why Software-Native Organizations Are Still Rare With Vasco Duarte In this BONUS episode, we explore the organizational barriers that prevent companies from becoming truly software-native. Despite having proof that agile, iterative approaches work at scale—from Spotify to Amazon to Etsy—most organizations still struggle to adopt these practices. We reveal the root cause behind this resistance and expose four critical barriers that form what we call "The Organizational Immune System." This isn't about resistance to change; it's about embedded structures, incentives, and mental models that actively reject beneficial transformation. The Root Cause: Project Management as an Incompatible Mindset "Project management as a mental model is fundamentally incompatible with software development. And will continue to be, because 'project management' as an art needs to support industries that are not software-native." The fundamental problem isn't about tools or practices—it's about how we think about work itself. Project management operates on assumptions that simply don't hold true for software development. It assumes you can know the scope upfront, plan everything in advance, and execute according to that plan. But software is fundamentally different. A significant portion of the work only becomes visible once you start building. You discover that the "simple" feature requires refactoring three other systems. You learn that users actually need something different than what they asked for. This isn't poor planning—it's the nature of software. Project management treats discovery as failure ("we missed requirements"), while software-native thinking treats discovery as progress ("we learned something critical"). As Vasco points out in his NoEstimates work, what project management calls "scope creep" should really be labeled "value discovery" in software—because we're discovering more value to add. Discovery vs. Execution: Why Software Needs Different Success Metrics "Software hypotheses need to be tested in hours or days, not weeks, and certainly not months. You can't wait until the end of a 12-month project to find out your core assumption was wrong." The timing mismatch between project management and software development creates fundamental problems. Project management optimizes for plan execution with feedback loops that are months or years long, with clear distinctions between teams doing requirements, design, building, and testing. But software needs to probe and validate assumptions in hours or days. Questions like "Will users actually use this feature?" or "Does this architecture handle the load?" can't wait for the end of a 12-month project. When we finally discover our core assumption was wrong, we need to fully replan—not just "change the plan." Software-native organizations optimize for learning speed, while project management optimizes for plan adherence. These are opposing and mutually exclusive definitions of success. The Language Gap: Why Software Needs Its Own Vocabulary "When you force software into project management language, you lose the ability to manage what actually matters. You end up tracking task completion while missing that you're building the wrong thing." The vocabulary we use shapes how we think about problems and solutions. Project management talks about tasks, milestones, percent complete, resource allocation, and critical path. Software needs to talk about user value, technical debt, architectural runway, learning velocity, deployment frequency, and lead time. These aren't just different words—they represent fundamentally different ways of thinking about work. When organizations force software teams to speak in project management terms, they lose the ability to discuss and manage what actually creates value in software development. The Scholarship Crisis: An Industry-Wide Knowledge Gap "Agile software development represents the first worldwide trend in scholarship around software delivery. But most organizational investment still goes into project management scholarship and training." There's extensive scholarship in IT, but almost none about delivery processes until recently. The agile movement represents the first major wave of people studying what actually works for building software, rather than adapting thinking from manufacturing or construction. Yet most organizational investment continues to flow into project management certifications like PMI and Prince2, and traditional MBA programs—all teaching an approach with fundamental problems when applied to software. This creates an industry-wide challenge: when CFOs, executives, and business partners all think in project management terms, they literally cannot understand why software needs to work differently. The mental model mismatch isn't just a team problem—it's affecting everyone in the organization and the broader industry. Budget Cycles: The Project Funding Trap "You commit to a scope at the start, when you know the least about what you need to build. The budget runs out exactly when you're starting to understand what users actually need." Project thinking drives project funding: organizations approve a fixed budget (say $2M over 9 months) to deliver specific features. This seems rational and gives finance predictability, but it's completely misaligned with how software creates value. Teams commit to scope when they know the least about what needs building. The budget expires just when they're starting to understand what users actually need. When the "project" ends, the team disbands, taking all their accumulated knowledge with them. Next year, the cycle starts over with a new project, new team, and zero retained context. Meanwhile, the software itself needs continuous evolution, but the funding structure treats it as a series of temporary initiatives with hard stops. The Alternative: Incremental Funding and Real-Time Signals "Instead of approving $2M for 9 months, approve smaller increments—maybe $200K for 6 weeks. Then decide whether to continue based on what you've learned." Software-native organizations fund teams working on products, not projects. This means incremental funding decisions based on learning rather than upfront commitments. Instead of detailed estimates that pretend to predict the future, they use lightweight signals from the NoEstimates approach to detect problems early: Are we delivering value regularly? Are we learning? Are users responding positively? These signals provide more useful information than any Gantt chart. Portfolio managers shift from being "task police" asking "are you on schedule?" to investment curators asking "are we seeing the value we expected? Should we invest more, pivot, or stop?" This mirrors how venture capital works—and software is inherently more like VC than construction. Amazon exemplifies this approach, giving teams continuous funding as long as they're delivering value and learning, with no arbitrary end date to the investment. The Business/IT Separation: A Structural Disaster "'The business' doesn't understand software—and often doesn't want to. They think in terms of features and deadlines, not capabilities and evolution." Project thinking reinforces organizational separation: "the business" defines requirements, "IT" implements them, and project managers coordinate the handoff. This seems logical with clear specialization and defined responsibilities. But it creates a disaster. The business writes requirements documents without understanding what's technically possible or what users actually need. IT receives them, estimates, and builds—but the requirements are usually wrong. By the time IT delivers, the business need has changed, or the software works but doesn't solve the real problem. Sometimes worst of all, it works exactly as specified but nobody wants it. This isn't a communication problem—it's a structural problem created by project thinking. Product Thinking: Starting with Behavior Change "Instead of 'build a new reporting dashboard,' the goal is 'reduce time finance team spends preparing monthly reports from 40 hours to 4 hours.'" Software-native organizations eliminate the business/IT separation by creating product teams focused on outcomes. Using approaches like Impact Mapping, they start with behavior change instead of features. The goal becomes a measurable change in business behavior or performance, not a list of requirements. Teams measure business outcomes, not task completion—tracking whether finance actually spends less time on reports. If the first version doesn't achieve that outcome, they iterate. The "requirement" isn't sacred; the outcome is. "Business" and "IT" collaborate on goals rather than handing off requirements. They're on the same team, working toward the same measurable outcome with no walls to throw things over. Spotify's squad model popularized this approach, with each squad including product managers, designers, and engineers all focused on the same part of the product, all owning the outcome together. Risk Management Theater: The Appearance of Control "Here's the real risk in software: delivering software that nobody wants, and having to maintain it forever." Project thinking creates elaborate risk management processes—steering committees, gate reviews, sign-offs, extensive documentation, and governance frameworks. These create the appearance of managing risk and make everyone feel professional and in control. But paradoxically, the very practices meant to manage risk end up increasing the risk of catastrophic failure. This mirrors Chesterton's Fence paradox. The real risk in software isn't about following the plan—it's delivering software nobody wants and having to maintain it forever. Every line of code becomes a maintenance burden. If it's not delivering value, you're paying the cost forever or paying additional cost to remove it later. Traditional risk management theater doesn't protect against this at all. Gates and approvals just slow you down without validating whether users will actually use what you're building or whether the software creates business value. Agile as Risk Management: Fast Learning Loops "Software-native organizations don't see 'governance' and 'agility' as a tradeoff. Agility IS governance. Fast learning loops ARE how you manage risk." Software-native organizations recognize that agile and product thinking ARE risk management. The fastest way to reduce risk is delivering quickly—getting software in front of real users in production with real data solving real problems, not in demos or staging environments. Teams validate expected value by measuring whether software achieves intended outcomes. Did finance really reduce their reporting time? Did users actually engage with the feature? When something isn't working, teams change it quickly. When it is working, they double down. Either way, they're managing risk through rapid learning. Eric Ries's Lean Startup methodology isn't just for startups—it's fundamentally a software-native management practice. Build-Measure-Learn isn't a nice-to-have; it's how you avoid the catastrophic risk of building the wrong thing. The Risk Management Contrast: Theater vs. Reality "Which approach actually manages risk? The second one validates assumptions quickly and cheaply. The first one maximizes your exposure to building the wrong thing." The contrast between approaches is stark. Risk management theater involves six months of requirements gathering and design, multiple approval gates that claim to prevent risk but actually accumulate it, comprehensive test plans, and a big-bang launch after 12 months. Teams then discover users don't want it—and now they're maintaining unwanted software forever. The agile risk management approach takes two weeks to build a minimal viable feature, ships to a subset of users, measures actual behavior, learns it's not quite right, iterates in another two weeks, validates value before scaling, and only maintains software that's proven valuable. The second approach validates assumptions quickly and cheaply. The first maximizes exposure to building the wrong thing. The Immune System in Action: How Barriers Reinforce Each Other "When you try to 'implement agile' without addressing these structural barriers, the organization's immune system rejects it. Teams might adopt standups and sprints, but nothing fundamental changes." These barriers work together as an immune system defending the status quo. It starts with the project management mindset—the fundamental belief that software is like construction, that we can plan it all upfront, that "done" is a meaningful state. That mindset creates funding models that allocate budgets to temporary projects instead of continuous products, organizational structures that separate "business" from "IT" and treat software as a cost center, and risk management theater that optimizes for appearing in control rather than actually learning. Each barrier reinforces the others. The funding model makes it hard to keep stable product teams. The business/IT separation makes it hard to validate value quickly. The risk theater slows down learning loops. The whole system resists change—even beneficial change—because each part depends on the others. This is why so many "agile transformations" fail: they treat the symptoms (team practices) without addressing the disease (organizational structures built on project thinking). Breaking Free: Seeing the System Clearly "Once you see the system clearly, you can transform it. You now know the root cause, how it manifests, and what the alternatives look like." Understanding these barriers is empowering. It's not that people are stupid or resistant to change—organizations have structural barriers built on a fundamental mental model mismatch. But once you see the system clearly, transformation becomes possible. You now understand the root cause (project management mindset), how it manifests in your organization (funding models, business/IT separation, risk theater), and what the alternatives look like through real examples from companies successfully operating as software-native organizations. The path forward requires addressing the disease, not just the symptoms—transforming the fundamental structures and mental models that shape how your organization approaches software. Recommended Further Reading Vasco's article on 5 examples of software disasters that show we are in the middle of another software crisis NoEstimates movement: Vasco Duarte's work and book Impact Mapping: Gojko Adzic's framework Lean Startup: Eric Ries, "The Lean Startup" Outcome-based funding model Spotify squad model: Henrik Kniberg's materials Chesterton's fence paradox About Vasco Duarte Vasco Duarte is a thought leader in the Agile space, co-founder of Agile Finland, and host of the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast, which has over 10 million downloads. Author of NoEstimates: How To Measure Project Progress Without Estimating, Vasco is a sought-after speaker and consultant helping organizations embrace Agile practices to achieve business success. You can link with Vasco Duarte on LinkedIn.

2025 年，大模型行业经历了一个明显的转折点。从 DeepSeek moment 开始，中美两端都感受到了一次「被重新洗牌」的冲击，经过一年的时间，中国的大模型，正在真实地进入全球使用场景之中。一份由 OpenRouter 与 Andreessen Horowitz 联合发布的报告 《State of AI:An Empirical 100 Trillion Token Study with OpenRouter》 (https://openrouter.ai/state-of-ai?utm_source=chatgpt.com)显示：2024 年，中国开源模型在全球调用中的占比只有约 1.2%，而到了 2025 年，这一比例已经上升至接近 30%。 这些被大量调用的中国模型，究竟是被谁在使用？在数据隐私、合规与地缘政治压力下，美国企业是否有所顾虑？中国模型出海，流量、影响力和商业化之间是否正在出现错位？节目邀请了大模型出海的一线观察者 Forrest Xu，从 OpenRouter、Inference Partner、企业级部署结构、开源与闭源模型的商业路径等多个层面，系统拆解了中国模型出海的真实运行机制。 本期人物 Forrest Xu，大模型出海从业者 丁教 Diane，「声动活泼」联合创始人、「科技早知道」主播 主要话题 [03:28] OpenRouter 是什么平台？为什么中国模型会在这里大量出现？ - OpenRouter 是以价格为核心的模型路由平台，强调“自动选择最便宜方案” - 美国市场缺乏持续更新的高质量开源模型 - 中国厂商在开源模型的性能与成本上形成明显优势 [07:08] OpenRouter 与 Inference Partner 的本质区别是什么？ - 路由平台：用户不知道具体模型，随时切换，几乎没有品牌忠诚度 - Inference Partner：与企业签署合同，明确模型、算力位置和数据归属 [14:10] 美国企业真正担心的是模型来自中国吗？ - 企业最核心的关切是数据是否出境、是否可控 - 只要数据留在美国或指定地区，模型来源并非首要问题 - 地缘政治压力更多体现在法务和合规层面 [16:12] 企业客户在合同中最常见的三项核心要求是什么？ - 数据不得进入中国大陆 - 输入和输出数据不得用于再训练 - 数据需可按需删除，并具备明确 SLA （service level agreement ） [22:40] 中国开源模型被大量使用，但为什么模型厂商本身并不赚钱？ - 开源模型几乎不直接产生收入 - 利润主要集中在推理服务商和中间层 - 模型厂商更多是在积累品牌、声誉和长期生态位置 [26:53] 推理模型的爆发，与中国开源模型之间有什么关系？ - 推理能力的扩散高度依赖开源社区 - 推理正在从“高端能力”变成“默认能力” - 中国开源模型在这一轮技术演进中起到了关键推动作用 [34:38] 开源模型未来是否存在新的商业化路径？ - 探讨通过授权 (licensing) 的方式实现“开源但收费” - 在西方企业环境中，license 合规具有现实可行性 - 开源并不必然等于无法商业化 GEO/AEO 闭门会 Untitled https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/4/4931937e-0184-4c61-a658-6b03c254754d/euIOMejd.png 在上一期节目中，我们收到了很多关于 AEO（Answer Engine Optimization） 的评论和反馈。 1 月 11 日， CES 结束之后我们将在硅谷组织一场小规模闭门交流，邀请在这个领域有较早探索的公司和产品以及AI平台与搜索引擎相关嘉宾一起来讨论： • AEO 在 AI 产品出海中的最新实践 • ChatGPT、Perplexity 等 AI 搜索入口的变化 • Reddit 等技术社区在 AEO 中的角色 • 当前阶段哪些方法有效，哪些值得谨慎对待 这将是一场以交流和讨论为主的闭门会，如果你有兴趣参与，请通过下方链接填写报名表。 我们将根据报名情况 定向发出邀请。

From time to time, we'll re-air a previous episode of the show that our newer audience may have missed. During this episode, Santosh is joined by Zach Fredericks, Principal at Primary Venture Partners, an early-stage VC firm that focuses on B2B SaaS, fintech, health, devtools, built world, and supply chain. In this conversation, Santosh and Zach discuss Zach's unexpected entry into supply chain and venture capital, detailing his experiences at Loadsmart and BlackRock. The discussion highlights the pandemic's impact on supply chains, emphasizing the need for resilience and adaptable solutions. Zach underscores the importance of decision intelligence and data interoperability, predicting a shift from EDI to APIs. He also discusses investment trends, advocating for near-shoring and expressing optimism about the trucking industry's future. The episode offers valuable insights into supply chain innovation and investment opportunities and so much more! Highlights from their conversation include:Overview of Primary Ventures (1:17)Zach's Background in Supply Chain (2:42)Macro Thesis from Pandemic Insights (4:46)Surprises in Software Adoption (6:55)Opportunities for Entrepreneurs (9:03)Decision Intelligence Importance (12:07)AI's Role in Supply Chain (14:48)Investment in Lyriq (19:01)Advice for Founders in Supply Chain (22:20)Investment Strategies in Supply Chain (23:48)Business Model Viability (25:01)This or That Segment: (26:27)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (27:05)Dynamo is a VC firm led by supply chain and mobility specialists that focus on seed-stage, enterprise startups.Find out more at: https://www.dynamo.vc/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For more thoughts, clips, and updates, follow Avetis Antaplyan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avetisantaplyanIn this episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, Avetis Antaplyan sits down with Isabelle Tashima, a growth equity investor at Volition Capital, to cut through the AI hype and unpack what truly drives breakout success in internet and consumer technology companies. Isabelle brings a unique perspective shaped by her experience across Goldman Sachs, Wells Fargo, KKR, and now Volition, where she focuses on backing capital-efficient founders who have achieved product-market fit with strong fundamentals.The conversation explores Volition's contrarian investment philosophy, why bootstrapped or lightly funded companies often outperform, and how growth equity differs from venture capital and private equity in both risk and partnership style. Isabelle shares insights on why community, creators, and affiliate-driven distribution have become durable moats in consumer tech, often outperforming traditional paid acquisition channels.They also dive into how AI is reshaping the landscape, not as a replacement for teams, but as a force multiplier for efficiency, unit economics, and speed. From evaluating founder-investor alignment to understanding when to prioritize partnership over valuation, this episode offers a grounded, thoughtful look at scaling modern tech businesses in an increasingly noisy market.TakeawaysCompanies without AI risk being displaced by competitors who use it effectively.Volition prioritizes capital-efficient founders who achieved traction without heavy dilution.Growth equity focuses on protecting downside (1x) while targeting meaningful upside (5x+).Community and brand can serve as powerful, defensible moats.Creator-led and affiliate-driven go-to-market strategies are reshaping distribution.Micro and nano creators often outperform large influencers in engagement and conversion.AI does not need to be customer-facing to add value; backend efficiency matters.Not all fast-growing AI companies have durable, long-term revenue.Founders should align with investors on time horizon, risk tolerance, and definition of success.Choosing the right partner often matters more than achieving the highest valuation.Chapters00:00 Cutting Through the AI Hype02:30 Volition Capital's Investment Philosophy05:00 Growth Equity vs. VC and Private Equity07:30 Contrarian Investing in Overlooked Markets10:30 The Shift in Go-To-Market Strategies13:30 Micro Creators and Democratized Distribution16:00 Evaluating AI in Non–AI-Native Companies18:30 Common Scaling Mistakes in Consumer Tech21:00 Fast Exits vs. Long-Term Value Creation25:30 Isabelle's Career Path and Investment Lens29:00 Choosing the Right Capital Partner38:00 Final Advice for FoundersIsabelle Tashima's Social Media Link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-tashima-780065135/Isabelle Tashima's Website Link:https://www.volitioncapital.com/team/isabelle-tashima/Resources and Links:https://www.hireclout.comhttps://www.podcast.hireclout.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright

This week on Swimming with Allocators, it's a bonus episode as Earnest talks about the "Best of Season Three" on the show, highlighting memorable moments and insights from the year's most popular shows. Topics include building intentionally diverse venture portfolios, the value of connecting distinct networks in the VC space, and innovative approaches to GP seeding and strategic partnerships for fund managers. Key takeaways for listeners are the importance of focusing on quality and flexibility over rigid investment categories, embracing discomfort to foster impactful professional connections, and looking beyond the largest funds to find unique opportunities and generate true alpha in venture capital. Don't miss a look back at some of the best moments on the podcast in 2025. Highlights from this week's conversation include: Welcome and Introduction to the Best Of Episode (0:02) Honorable Mention: Joshua Berkowitz on Venture Portfolios (3:43) Embracing “A Mess by Design” in Portfolio Strategy (4:03) Kevin and Raudline on Network Building and Connectivity (9:41) The Value of Bridging Networks and Network Effects (12:36) Capital Concentration and Middle-Market Allocators (14:33) Trends in Venture Capital for 2025 and Beyond (17:35) Jason Howard on GP Seeding and Strategic Partnerships (22:25) Partnership Benefits and Advisor Roles for GPs (27:02) Final Thoughts and Takeaways (35:57) Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies.  The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You're an institution. Time to invest like one. _____________ What if a life-altering accident on the beach redirected your entire career, and a mental health crisis became the catalyst for resilient leadership? In this inspiring episode of Bootstrap MD, Dr. Mike Woo-Ming welcomes Dr. Scott Ellner, as he shares his journey from witnessing a roadside trauma that sparked his path to medicine, to practicing in New England, facing burnout and suicidal thoughts, and pivoting to executive roles like leading Integris Health Medical Group. Drawing from surfing metaphors, he discusses mental health stigma, the addiction to identity, finding purpose beyond the OR, and practical tips for physicians navigating pivots, startups, and leadership in chaotic healthcare. Perfect for doctors feeling stuck or seeking nonclinical transitions, this conversation offers hope, transparency, and actionable insights on grit, resilience, and reaching out. Three Actionable Takeaways:   Embrace Mental Health Openly: Physicians face immense stressors—discuss it like physical health. If you're in crisis (e.g., burnout, cynicism), reflect on purpose: "What intimidates me motivates me." Reach out to a trusted person; a simple "Are you okay?" can save lives, as it did for Scott during a dark night on call. Redefine Purpose Beyond Identity: Don't tie your worth to "surgeon" or "physician"—identity addiction fuels burnout. Pivot by exploring passions (e.g., leadership, startups); spend time journaling or in "executive residencies" to learn business acumen, funding pitches, and health system buy-in for new ventures. Use Surfing as a Leadership Metaphor: Adversity builds grit. Paddle through discomfort like cold water or wetsuits. In healthcare chaos (post-COVID), lead by contributing meaningfully; for pivots, seek VC insights on exit strategies and physician influence (e.g., CMO buy-in) to make ideas stick. About the Show: Bootstrap MD is the ultimate podcast for physician entrepreneurs looking to escape traditional healthcare and control their financial futures. Hosted by Dr. Mike Woo-Ming, a successful physician, entrepreneur, and investor, the show delivers actionable insights on starting businesses, creating passive income, and navigating healthcare entrepreneurship. Featuring interviews with industry leaders, physicians, and experts in telemedicine and digital health, it's your guide to building a profitable, fulfilling career.  Tune in weekly at  http://bootstrapmd.com  About the Guest: Dr. Scott Ellner is a former general and trauma surgeon, now President of Integris Health Medical Group in Oklahoma City. A leadership strategist and TEDx speaker, he transitioned from clinical practice after a mental health crisis, drawing from surgery, surfing, and executive roles to help physicians combat burnout and lead sustainably. He's the author of Wipe Out, Rise Up: A Practical and Deeply Human Guide to Leadership, Grit, and Redefining Success in Medicine.  

In this CISOP episode of CSO Perspectives, Host Kim Jones sits down with John Funge, venture capitalist at DataTribe, to explore how investors view the cybersecurity landscape. Kim reflects on the tension between innovation, profit motives, and the real needs of security practitioners—raising questions about whether the industry prioritizes mitigation over true solutions. John offers a candid look inside the VC decision-making process, breaking down how teams, market fit, and long-term defensibility shape investment choices. Together, they examine how founders, investors, and CISOs can better align to drive meaningful, effective security innovation. Want more CISO Perspectives? Check out a companion ⁠⁠blog post⁠⁠ by our very own Ethan Cook, where he breaks down key insights, shares behind-the-scenes context, and highlights research that complements this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Finally, the Spider-Man® and Alien® crossover we’ve been waiting for! In this review episode, Mark and Dan discuss Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 7) #17, which is legacy issue #981. This issue was written by Joe Kelly. The cover and interiors feature artwork by Pepe Larraz, colors by Marte Gracia, and, of course, letters by VC's Joe Caramagna. This issue was first released on December 10th, 2025. Rick Coste edited this episode. Alex Galucki edited the video version of this podcast. Our artwork is handcrafted by artists Ron Frenz, Sal Buscema, Chris Sutcliffe, and Nick Cagnetti. Our theme songs were produced by Ryland Bojack, Tony Thaxton, and Spider-Maj. Our animated introduction to the show is by Josh Sutton of Panels to Pixels. Watch the show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOPCnjzQZNViyEnoOuckaVQ We would also love to see you join our Amazing Spider-Slack community board. If you'd like to join in on our amazing conversations, click this link to get started: https://join.slack.com/t/amazingspider/shared_invite/zt-42tsfhs2-yBaH6KkRmOWiW_8gCf9SmQ This week's Patreon podcasts include a review of Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 7) #18  and two episodes of the Whatever a Spider Can Diaries, which documents Dan’s process of writing a book about Spider-Man. If you'd like to follow along with our reviews as they are released, please check out our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/superiorspidertalk Read our B-Title reviews, collecting memories, and more in the Amazing Spider-Talk Substack! http://www.amazingspider.substack.com You can email questions to our show at amazingspidertalk@gmail.com or by clicking here. You can also BUY MARK'S BOOK, 100 Things Spider-Man Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die. The post The Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 7) #17 / LGY #981 – REVIEW appeared first on Amazing Spider-Talk.

Catching yourself rereading last year's VC emails while you're back in Silicon Valley is a pretty good way to realize how wild the last 12 months have been. Colin, Chuck, Canisius, and Todd break down how Collide AI is turning fast POCs into real production workflows, why change management is the actual moat, and how a stacked forward deployed team plus community driven distribution is setting up 2026 to be the year everything scales.Click here to watch a video of this episode.Join the conversation shaping the future of energy.Collide is the community where oil & gas professionals connect, share insights, and solve real-world problems together. No noise. No fluff. Just the discussions that move our industry forward.Apply today at collide.ioClick here to view the episode transcript. 00:00 Product market fit jokes and kickoff00:28 VC email flashback and velocity01:29 Forward deployed model and AI first mindset02:18 Sam Texas and AI coding shift04:04 What AI first actually means06:18 Not just podcast bros anymore07:00 AI breaks silos across the business08:21 Doglegs example and incentives09:57 Change management is the advantage10:18 Client story and regulatory filings win12:42 Selling outcomes not hype13:36 Building the FTE team and faster delivery16:24 AI strategy as workflow ROI first18:26 Grok as a thought partner and GPU cluster20:15 Shale revolution mindset parallel22:29 Recruiting, software DNA, and stacked team26:16 Content and community as a recruiting engine29:11 Distribution flywheel in the real world30:22 Team distribution vs product debate32:32 2026 is the scaling year34:02 Community platform finally clicking36:09 Building the community platform the hard way39:20 Scaling clients, POCs, and production41:09 Why mom and pops matter41:55 Energy demand tailwinds and macro impact44:44 One word answer for next year: scale45:20 POC to production cycle time focus47:12 Scaling tech, sales, and financing49:45 Moving at AI speed story50:14 Raising capital and building serious software52:56 Collide as the operator layer vision54:02 Gratitude and community over everythinghttps://twitter.com/collide_iohttps://www.tiktok.com/@collide.iohttps://www.facebook.com/collide.iohttps://www.instagram.com/collide.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@collide_iohttps://bsky.app/profile/digitalwildcatters.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/collide-digital-wildcatters

April co-founder and CEO Ben Borodach joins Fund/Build/Scale to break down how he built a compound startup in one of the hardest markets in fintech: U.S. taxes. We talk about why some problems can't be solved with a simple wedge product, how to sequence engineering, compliance, and distribution, and what it takes to operate inside complexity for years before the market catches up. Ben shares the early customer discovery work, the “science experiments” that shaped April's product, and the cultural frameworks he and his co-founder developed before they wrote any code. If you're an early-stage founder deciding what to build — or how to build it — this episode offers a clear playbook for choosing hard problems and de-risking them the right way. RUNTIME 48:00   EPISODE BREAKDOWN 01:08  How Ben and Daniel met + connecting over complex data problems 01:47  Ben's background: Deloitte, crypto infra, cyber, fintech 02:51  Why pick tax? Choosing a hard, high-impact market 03:44  Outdated incumbents + the opportunity hidden in “don't touch that” markets 04:57  Why tax innovation is so rare: regulatory hurdles and decades-old engines 05:29  Founder-market fit: complementary backgrounds + AI expertise 06:38  Translating congressional law into code + achieving 20× engineering leverage 07:25  The pseudo-manifesto: conflict resolution, culture, and founder alignment 08:40  What “compound startup” means and why narrow wedges don't work in B2B 09:57  Stitching data, workflows, and software into a flexible platform 10:39  Building for multiple configurations across financial institutions 11:26  How complexity becomes a moat 13:01  Why compound startups require longer gestation and patience 14:46  Sequencing layers: engine → coverage → interfaces → embedded infra 15:50  The rigid annual regulatory calendar and “Manhattan-style” planning 17:13  Serving customers early: friction with the market by design 18:46  Manual work vs. automation: the constant balancing act 19:27  The early KPI wasn't revenue  it was proving technical and trust viability 20:46  Running “science experiments” to de-risk assumptions 21:16  Investor expectations vs. seasonal learning cycles 22:47  Surviving four years of annual gauntlets before scale 23:02  Inside the regulatory maze: IRS approval, state forms, arbitrary specs 24:04  Data governance challenges: CCPA, IRS 7216, portability 25:20  Why April participates in the industry's private governance body 26:18  Why April chose embedded distribution over a consumer app 27:32  The crumbling moats of financial institutions 29:08  Tax as the missing data layer enabling personalization 30:47  How customer discovery differed across banking, wealth, and SMB 31:07  Thousands of conversations across dozens of institutions 32:51  What April had to prove at Seed, Series A, Series B 33:49  Why rigid VC benchmarks can be unhelpful for complex companies 37:02  Headcount growth: seed → A → B 38:20  Why Ben doesn't interview every employee anymore 39:48  Founder evolution: doing → delegating → maintaining quality 40:55  Resilience, wellbeing, and founder longevity 41:39  The mythology of 996 and why it's unsustainable 44:07  The most common mistakes first-time fintech founders make 46:14  The one question Ben would ask if he were interviewing a founder LINKS Ben Borodach April Daniel Marcous april Raises $38M Series B to Embed Tax into Every Financial Decision April Careers   SUBSCRIBE

Dr. Dan Pardi is the Chief Health Officer at Qualia Life Sciences, where he leads education initiatives that advance healthspan and peak performance. He's also the founder of humanOS.me and host of humanOS Radio, the official podcast of the Sleep Research Society. Through his consultancy, Vivendi Health, Dan has advised elite military units, Fortune 500 companies, and startups. He holds a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience from Leiden University and Stanford and speaks regularly at events such as TEDx, major VC firms, and the Institute for Human Machine Cognition.Today's topic: Describing What It Means to Be ‘Human'—exploring the link between stem cells, adaptability, lifestyle, and healthy longevity. .This is Part 2 of a 2-part conversation where we discuss:• What it truly means to be human• Our hunter-gatherer relationship to light and the natural world• How stem cells influence healthy longevity• The lifestyle factors that support us as we age• And much moreTUNE IN: PART 1Resources:Qualia Life: https://www.qualialife.comhumanOS Radio: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLoATGFzAJlZFVbZRE9jQX-i82TOLTx1WQDr. Dan Pardi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danpardi/

Welcome back to another EUVC Podcast, where we explore the lessons, frameworks, and insights shaping venture ecosystems across the globe.In this special Southeast Asia edition this week, David Cruz e Silva from EUVC and Ambika from Circle Capital sit down with Binh Tran from AVV (Ascend Vietnam Ventures) - a VC firm headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City, backing tech founders across Vietnam, Southeast Asia, and the U.S.A serial founder turned VC, Binh sold his first company Klout for $200M in 2014 before launching 500 Startups Vietnam and later AVV, which has now backed about 500 startups, including unicorns Turing, Skymavis, and ApplyBoard.Together, they unpack Vietnam's ecosystem growth, power-law returns in emerging markets, government catalysts, and how to back founders with both grit and global ambition.

In the inaugural VC10X LP Roundtable, we bring together experienced allocators Matt Curtolo & Anurag Chandra to unpack the state of venture capital as we close out 2025 and look ahead to 2026.⭐ Sponsored by Podcast10x - Podcasting agency for VCs - https://podcast10x.comTopics covered:- How the recent Fed rate cut does and does not change venture capital- Why DPI pressure has become the dominant LP concern- Venture vs private credit and when the comparison actually matters- Fundraising realities and why it now takes 18 to 30 months to raise a fund- The changing role of secondaries, continuation funds, and engineered liquidity- Why M&A, not IPOs, has historically driven most venture exits- AI as a structural opportunity or capital concentration risk- Generalist vs specialist funds and what real differentiation actually looks like- Why some LPs are staying committed to venture despite short term underperformance- The biggest mistakes allocators made in past cycles and what they won't repeatTimestamps:(00:00) - Preview(01:08) - Introduction to the LP Roundtable(03:15) - The impact of the macro interest rate environment on venture capital.(03:55) - The limited direct effect of interest rates on early-stage innovation.(06:00) - How interest rates negatively impact SaaS company valuations and exits.(09:35) - How "higher for longer" interest rates are changing LP expectations for returns.(11:13) - The LP perspective: Balancing DPI, MOIC, and IRR in venture investing.(14:09) - The role of the exit environment and secondaries in meeting DPI pressure.(16:38) - The risks of LPs over-focusing on short-term DPI.(18:44) - The emergence of the secondary market for later-stage companies.(20:30) - Future outlook for the M&A and IPO markets as exit paths.(21:02) - Why M&A is the historical bread and butter of venture exits, not IPOs.(23:37) - Underestimating the potential scale of venture-backed exits in the new tech era.(27:35) - How early-stage funds can engineer liquidity through secondary sales.(29:24) - Gross vs. Net Returns: The difference between a good investor and a good fund manager.(30:50) - Why is it so difficult to raise a VC fund today?(31:45) - The fundraising bifurcation: Brand names vs. emerging managers.(35:10) - Career risk and structural barriers for LPs investing in smaller funds.(38:01) - Why institutions often prefer to invest in Fund III and beyond.(40:38) - How can fund managers differentiate themselves? Generalist vs. specialist.(41:46) - Differentiating as a "hustle fund" with a functional specialty (e.g., go-to-market).(45:25) - It's not about being different, it's about being better: The importance of GP-thesis fit.(48:08) - VCs should "take their own medicine" when pitching to LPs.(49:17) - Outlook for 2026: Will the venture market get easier for funds and startups?(50:05) - An optimistic outlook for 2026 driven by technological acceleration.(55:18) - The growing importance of global and emerging markets in venture capital.(55:45) - A closer look at India's booming IPO market and its contrast with the US.(57:15) - Conclusion and final thoughts.---Links to connect:Matt Curtolo - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-curtolo-caiaAnurag Chandra - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anchandraPrashant Choubey - https://www.linkedin.com/in/choubeysahabSubscribe to VC10X newsletter - https://vc10x.beehiiv.comSubscribe on YouTube - https://youtube.com/@vc10x Subscribe on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vc10x-investing-venture-capital-asset-management-private/id1632806986Subscribe on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7F7KEhXNhTx1bKTBFgzv3k?si=WgQ4ozMiQJ-6nowj6wBgqQVC10X website - https://vc10x.comFor sponsorship queries, reach out to prashantchoubey3@gmail.comSubscribe for weekly conversations on venture, private markets, and investing.

Bài giảng: Thánh lễ tạ ơn Làm phép nhà thờ Giáo họ Thượng Cung | Đức cha Giu-se Vũ Công Viện by TGP Hà Nội

Charlie Uniman, your podcast host, and Pat Utz, CEO and co-founder of Abstract (https://www.abstract.us/), explore how Abstract turns legislative and regulatory noise into real-time, client-specific strategy, and why deterministic workflows beat agentic dreams for now. Pat shares candid lessons on funding, traction, hiring, and building a product that actually moves the needle.• origins in AI research and mission to make government transparent• proactive monitoring of bills, regulations, executive orders, and local agendas• real-time enrichment with client context to flag risks and opportunities• strategy layer and workflows that move from alert to outreach• planned expansion into judicial opinions to shape case law awareness• enterprise focus with long-term goal of a consumer version• founder advice on VC vs bootstrapping, traction before funding, and hiring fitIf you're interested in legal tech startups and enjoyed this podcast, please consider joining the free Legal Tech Startup Focus community by going to www.legaltech startupfocus.com and signing up

Sponsors Cloud Accountant Staffing - http://accountingpodcast.promo/casRelay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/relayOnPay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/onpayChapters(00:47) - Jeffrey Epstein's CPA and Lawyer (03:10) - Wall Street Journal Article on Epstein's Associates (05:58) - Discussion on Epstein's Financial Operations (14:25) - Trump's Executive Order on Cannabis Businesses (18:16) - Tax Implications for Gambling and Prediction Markets (20:47) - IRS Criminal Investigations Unit Record Year (25:13) - Lawyer Sues IRS to Recognize Dog as Dependent (28:09) - Trump's New US Tech Force (29:27) - Trump's Hiring Plans and Tech Startups (30:22) - Startup Fraud in Tax Accounting (34:23) - Intuit and Circle Partnership (36:38) - AI and Stablecoin Payments (44:16) - AI's Impact on Accounting Jobs (51:24) - AI-Powered Fraud in Finance (55:59) - Closing Remarks and Announcements  Show NotesThe CPA and the Lawyer Who Served Jeffrey Epstein—and Control His Fortune and Secrets https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-cpa-and-the-lawyer-who-served-jeffrey-epstein-and-control-his-fortune-and-secretsTaking a gamble on prediction market taxation https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/taking-a-gamble-on-prediction-market-taxationLawyer sues IRS to recognize pets as dependents https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/lawyer-sues-irs-to-recognize-pets-as-dependentsSEC Charges Shiloh Luckey https://www.sec.gov/enforcement-litigation/litigation-releases/lr-26424The FBI is investigating a startup founder accused of using VC money to pay for her house and a Caribbean wedding https://techstartups.com/2025/12/16/the-fbi-is-investigating-a-startup-founder-accused-of-spending-5-5-million-in-vc-funding-on-a-house-and-caribbean-wedding/Intuit taps Circle's USDC to add stablecoin payments across TurboTax and QuickBooks https://www.theblock.co/post/383184/intuit-circle-usdc-stablecoin-payments-turbotax-quickbooksIntuit and Circle Partner to Unlock the Future of Money Movement with Stablecoins https://investors.intuit.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1292/intuit-and-circle-partner-to-unlock-the-future-of-money-movement-with-stablecoinsAI Is Reshaping Accounting Jobs by Doing the "Boring" Stuff https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/insights/ai-reshaping-accounting-jobs-doing-boring-stuffHuman + AI in Accounting: Early Evidence from the Field https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/faculty-research/working-papers/human-ai-accounting-early-evidence-fieldIRS-CI issues fiscal year 2025 annual report showcasing banner investigative results https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-ci-issues-fiscal-year-2025-annual-report-showcasing-banner-investigative-resultsIRS Criminal Investigation uncovers $10.6B in financial crimes https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/irs-criminal-investigation-uncovers-10-6b-in-financial-crimesDext warns businesses over losses from ChatGPT-style financial advice https://fintech.global/2025/12/18/dext-warns-businesses-over-losses-from-chatgpt-style-financial-advice/ChatGPT tax advice already costing UK firms, say accountants https://itbrief.co.uk/story/chatgpt-tax-advice-already-costing-uk-firms-say-accountantsTrump admin to hire 1,000 specialists for 'Tech Force' to build AI, finance projects https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/15/trump-ai-tech-force-amazon-apple.htmlOPM Launches US Tech Force to Implement President Trump's Vision for Technology Leadershiphttps://www.opm.gov/news/news-releases/opm-launches-us-tech-force-to-implement-president-trumps-vision-for-technology-leadership/Double Raises $6.5 Million Series A from Album Ventures, Jack Altman, and Y Combinator to Double Accountants' Productivity https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251210027851/en/Double-Raises-$6.5-Million-Series-A-from-Album-Ventures-Jack-Altman-and-Y-Combinator-to-Double-Accountants-ProductivityZoho announces enterprise billing, spend management products https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/zoho-announces-enterprise-billing-spend-management-productsZoho Announces Zoho Spend and Zoho Billing Enterprise Edition https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251218170986/en/Zoho-Announces-Zoho-Spend-and-Zoho-Billing-Enterprise-Edition-Offering-Large-Businesses-Greater-Control-and-Flexibility-Over-Billing-Operations-and-Company-Spend-as-They-ScaleAI giving scammers new tricks, enhancing old ones https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/ai-giving-scammers-new-tricks-enhancing-old-onesFrom secure to spooked: White-collar workers face rising job fears https://www.businessreport.com/article/from-secure-to-spooked-white-collar-workers-face-rising-job-fears

Welcome to the Tearsheet Podcast, where we explore financial services together with an eye on technology, innovation, emerging models, and changing expectations. I'm Tearsheet's editor in chief, Zack Miller. For fintechs, cracking the credit union market is notoriously difficult. It's relationship-based, insular, and requires a fundamentally different approach than banking. Many try and fail. But when done right, it opens up distribution to institutions serving over 140 million Americans. Today I'm joined by Brian Kaas, president and managing director of TruStage Ventures, the corporate VC arm of TruStage—a $5.5 billion annual revenue insurer that works with 92% of credit unions nationwide. Since 2016, TruStage Ventures has deployed $400 million across 50 portfolio companies and facilitated over 3,000 partnerships between credit unions and fintechs. We first spoke with Brian in 2021 when the fund was just gaining traction. Four years later, the portfolio has matured with companies like Ethos, Current, and SmartAsset, and Brian's team has become essential connective tissue between innovative fintechs and credit union distribution. We'll dig into what makes credit union partnerships different, why so many fintechs struggle to break in, and why stablecoin solutions have become the number one request Brian's hearing from credit union CEOs.

Episode 408 of The VentureFizz Podcast features Matt Fates, Partner at Innospark Ventures. Did you know that the first modern venture capital firm was started right here in the Boston area? It's true. Back in 1946, Georges Doriot founded the American Research and Development Corporation (ARDC), marking the birth of an industry that has fueled the entrepreneurial dream for nearly 80 years. Matt Fates entered the industry during the “Internet 1.0” era, a time when VC firms were just beginning to gain major visibility. Over the course of his career, he has invested in over 100 companies. Through those investments, he has developed a deep expertise in data-driven enterprise and infrastructure startups—experience that has perfectly positioned him for the current massive shift toward AI. Innospark Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in AI-native companies solving previously intractable problems across healthcare, life sciences, and the enterprise. In this episode of our podcast, we cover: 00:00 Intro 02:22 VentureFizz OG 03:42 How to Land a Job in Venture Capital 07:49 Matt's Background 13:05 Getting into Investment Banking in the Tech Industry 16:22 Transition to Venture Capital 21:07 Dartmouth MBA 24:05 Experience at Ascent Venture Partners 28:59 Details of Innospark 30:39 Foundational Knowledge in AI and Machine Learning 32:41 Area of Focus for Investments at Innospark 37:04 Recent Investments for Innospark 43:36 The State of the Boston Startup Scene 46:51 The Anti-Portfolio - Missed Investments 49:04 Rapid Fire Questions 50:09 Personal Interests Episode Sponsor: As a longtime champion of the local startup ecosystem, Silicon Valley Bank supports innovative companies with the solutions and financing they need through every stage of growth. With more than 1,500 bankers and relationship advisors, and $42B in loans as of Q2 2024 – SVB delivers the right people, service and resources to support your entire financial journey. Learn more at SVB.com.

In this episode of The Defiant Podcast, Uniswap founder Hayden Adams joins us right as the UNIfication (Unification) proposal has moved to a final governance vote—a sweeping plan from Uniswap Labs + the Uniswap Foundation that would activate protocol fees, introduce a programmatic UNI burn, and realign how value accrues across the Uniswap ecosystem. We go deep on what's actually inside the proposal (and what isn't), why this moment feels like the end of one DeFi era and the start of another, and how years of “regulation by enforcement” shaped Uniswap's product decisions—down to Hayden's firsthand experience with debanking, legal pressure, and the chilling effect on builders. What we coverWhy UNIfication is being pitched as a once-in-a-cycle reset for UniswapThe real mechanics of the fee switch(es) (plural) and how the “token jar” burn design worksThe perceived tension between UNI token holders vs. equity/VC value capture and whether this vote changes thatWhy Uniswap wants to shift from “best frontend” to protocol-first infrastructure (APIs, ecosystem engineering, aggregator hooks)How Unichain fits into the broader strategy—and what “near-free trading” could mean in practiceGovernance backlash: is Uniswap becoming more centralized or more decentralized?Context: the vote is live! Hayden shared that the UNIfication proposal is now in the final governance vote stage.Subscribe for more founder-level conversations at the intersection of DeFi, regulation, and market structure.

Global Chief Strategy Officer Howe Ng discusses the private market landscape, emphasizing the increasing value creation within this asset class. He anticipates a strong IPO market in 2026, with potential public offerings from high-profile companies like SpaceX, OpenAI, and Anthropic, collectively valued at over $1.4 trillion. Ng stresses the importance of data-driven transparency in the private market, exemplified by Forge Price, which provides daily pricing standards and implied valuations for late-stage VC companies.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, read the Options Disclosure Document. http://bit.ly/2v9tH6DSubscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Хотите знать, где будут лучшие вакансии и зарплаты в 2026 году? Следите за венчурными инвестициями.Куда идут деньги фондов - там растут компании, там нанимают людей, там платят топовые оффера.AI привлек $18.9 млрд в один квартал, cybersecurity бьет рекорды по финансированию,fintech проводит успешные IPO, а B2B SaaS ожидает первый double-digit рост с 2021 года.Это не просто цифры - это ваши будущие работодатели и карьерные возможности.Какие ниши взлетят и где искать работу уже сейчас?Узнаем у венчурного инвестора с 11-летним опытом, Дениса Калышкина.Приходите с вопросами или оставляйте их заранее в Телеграм канале:https://t.me/prodcastUSAДенис Калышкин - инвестиционный директор американского венчурного фонда с 11+ лет опыта,основатель проекта для предпринимателей "Спроси VC":https://t.me/ask_vchttps://www.linkedin.com/in/denis-kalyshkin-b634592a/ Предыдущие эфиры с Денисом:Мечтаешь о стартапе? 16 честных ответов от венчурного инвестора — https://youtube.com/live/6FR1KS9n0P4Стартап-тренды 2025: что взорвет рынок и почему бездействие - ваш главный враг? — https://youtube.com/live/K3WRgBFU06sКак и где найти сооснователя стартапа? Как выбрать подходящего партнера для бизнеса? — https://youtube.com/live/-s1ZyqzL9bAКак придумать идею для стартапа? Кому нужно запускать бизнес? С чего начать? — https://youtube.com/live/uXBAtS11nYcЧто нас ждет в 2025? Кризис, массовые увольнения, крах стартапов. Где искать работу? — https://youtube.com/live/ZbYm10zrfEAЗаписаться на карьерную консультацию (резюме, LinkedIn, карьерная стратегия, поиск работы в США):https://annanaumova.comКоучинг (синдром самозванца, прокрастинация, неуверенность в себе, страхи, лень):https://annanaumova.notion.site/3f6ea5ce89694c93afb1156df3c903abТелеграм:https://t.me/prodcastUSAИнстаграм: https://www.instagram.com/prodcast.usТикТок: https://www.tiktok.com/@us.jobTimecodes00:00 Начало18:39 Про венчурный рынок в США26:12 Тренды 2025 и 2026 года57:47 Вопросы из чата1:36:39 Что можешь пожелать тем, кто ищет работу в 2026?

For the holiday break we are resurfacing some of our best episodes so far. Here is the best episode of season 3.Kyle left his job as a hacker at the NSA to launch Huntress. He bootstrapped for 3 years and burned all his savings. One of his co-founders quit. He got into an accelerator program, but had to sleep in his car for 16 weeks because he couldn't afford a hotel.Finally, 3 years in he'd hit $1.5M ARR. So he pitched 60 VCs for a Series A—and got 60 'no's. He was forced to raise a small, $1M inside round. But then things changed:2018: $1.5M ARR2019: $5M ARR2020: $10M ARR2021: $20M ARR2022: $40M ARR2023: $70M ARR2024: $100M+ ARRHuntress is valued at $2B.The investors who backed his $1M bridge are up 140x. Now every VC wants to invest—and Kyle's the one saying 'no'.Why you should listen: How to know whether you should keep going or quit.What it takes to get through the first few years at a bootstrapped startup.Why revenue expansion is a huge lever for fast-growth (Huntress has 140% net revenue retention).How starting a startup can impact your personal life and relationships.How to work with partners to sell to long tail SMB customers.Keywordsentrepreneurship, cybersecurity, product market fit, startup journey, military experience, SMB market, funding challenges, automation, human expertise, business growthTimestamps:(00:00:00) Intro(00:2:01) Working at the NSA(00:6:14) A big win in counter cyber terrorism(00:10:00) What gave way to Huntress(00:14:22) Pitching to a startup accelerator(00:16:29) Adopting curiosity(00:21:04) Getting ahead of cyber criminals(00:26:00) Starting to grow(00:32:50) Cult or conviction(00:35:00) It takes grit(00:39:50) Learning from people's lessons(00:42:20) Cockroaches and underdogs(00:46:10) Three strikes, I'm out(00:52:56) Having a military background(00:56:17) One piece of adviceSend me a message to let me know what you think!

¿Sientes ansiedad cada vez que entras a LinkedIn y ves el éxito de los demás? No estás solo. El creador del término tiene la solución.En este episodio de Innovación Sin Barreras, grabado en vivo desde Impactaland (el hub de inversiones del ETM Day), nos sentamos con Patrick McGinnis, el hombre que acuñó el término FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) en un artículo de Harvard Business School en 2004.Pero Patrick dice que el FOMO no es nuestro peor enemigo. El verdadero villano es el FOBO (Fear of Better Opportunities): la parálisis que sientes cuando no puedes elegir porque "algo mejor podría aparecer".En esta conversación, liderada por nuestro co-host invitado Ronny Bortnic (creador del podcast Las 8 Preguntas), Patrick desglosa sus frameworks para tomar decisiones rápidas, explica por qué el "JOMO" es una farsa, y se enfrenta a un debate picante con Ronny: ¿Realmente se puede emprender dedicando solo el 10% de tu tiempo?Lo que vas a aprender:

Peter Imburg is the founder and CEO of Elfster, the world's most widely used Secret Santa and gift exchange platform, now serving over 40 million users globally. He bootstrapped the company from a side project in his basement into a profitable, affiliate-driven e‑commerce engine—without taking a dollar of venture capital or angel money. On this episode we talk about: How Peter went from paper routes and grocery bagging to tech consulting and then founding Elfster. The origin story of Elfster and how a frustrating family Secret Santa experience sparked a global platform. Bootstrapping for years without outside funding, including early experiments with sponsorships and brand campaigns. The pivotal shift from seasonal ad deals to an affiliate/e‑commerce model that finally aligned user growth with revenue. What Elfster looks like today: tens of millions of users, hundreds of millions in gross merchandise volume, and a lean global team. Top 3 Takeaways You don't need VC money to build something big; you do need a real problem, relentless iteration, and patience through years of “keeping the lights on.” Business models matter as much as product—Elfster didn't really turn the corner until it aligned its product with an evergreen revenue engine (affiliate commerce) instead of one‑off ad experiments. Long-term success often comes from saying yes to “small” opportunities (like a late‑season campaign) and then spotting the bigger strategic insight hidden inside them. Notable Quotes “There's got to be somebody doing this online…I looked all around, there's nothing.” “For years we were getting enough money to keep the lights on, but user growth didn't translate into revenue growth.” “Once we made the shift, as we grew users, our revenue grew too—that was the pivotal moment.” Connect with Elfster: Website: elfster.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️

ANZ is cutting 4,500 jobs and scaling back consultants in a $560 million restructure under its new CEO. Macquarie has smashed the Big Four banks in July this year, snapping up nearly 40% of all Australian home loans written. Airwallex has pulled off Australia’s second-largest VC raise ever with a $US330 million raise… but it’s not without its controversy. _ Download the free app (App Store): http://bit.ly/FluxAppStore Download the free app (Google Play): http://bit.ly/FluxappGooglePlay Daily newsletter: https://bit.ly/fluxnewsletter Flux on Instagram: http://bit.ly/fluxinsta Flux on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flux.finance —- The content in this podcast reflects the views and opinions of the hosts, and is intended for personal and not commercial use. We do not represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, statement or other information provided or distributed in these episodes.__See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charlie and Colin dive into the quantum computing debate. Is it a threat to Bitcoin or just VC hype? We explore vulnerable addresses, Nick Carter's thesis, the 2028 timeline, and the controversial plan to "burn" Satoshi's coins to save the network from a $100B hack. Charlie and Colin join us to talk about the existential risk of quantum computing. We break down Nick Carter's latest research, the timeline for a potential quantum break, and the 2 million Bitcoin currently at risk. We debate the ethics of "burning" Satoshi's coins to save the network, the technical challenges of forking to quantum-resistant signatures, and why the next big Bitcoin civil war might be fought over physics. Subscribe to the newsletter! [https://newsletter.blockspacemedia.com](https://newsletter.blockspacemedia.com) Notes: * 1-2 million BTC are quantum vulnerable * Satoshi holds ~$100 billion in Bitcoin * Legacy crypto banned by US Gov by 2035 * Elliptic curve break projected 2028-2033 * $500 billion sitting in vulnerable wallets Timestamps: 00:00 Start 01:16 Overview 06:26 Do we do anything? 08:48 Companies pumping quantum bags 19:18 Bitcoin as bug bounty 23:37 How to quantum proof Bitcoin? 26:14 BIP 360 35:48 Philosophy & chain splits -

My interview with Ali Ansari the founder of micro1.ai, an AI startup that has grown revenue from $8M to $150M+ this year and is on track for a multi-billion dollar valuation. They are working with most of the AI labs and largest tech companies in the world (including Microsoft) to hire human experts to train AI. We've been investing in Ali for years now and it's been epic to see his insane growth and recent traction. Ali and micro1 are at the forefront of the AI revolution.Ali Ansari Founder of micro1.ai on X: https://x.com/aliniikkmicro1 website: https://www.micro1.ai/0:00 Forbes Article, $2.5B Valuation?1:35 Micro1: The AI Platform For Human Intelligence7:18 Micro1's Insane Growth ($8M to $100M ARR in one year)9:54 Are We In An AI Bubble?16:16 Micro1's Long Term Vision20:25 Micro1 Training Tesla Optimus25:20 Why Did You Found Micro1?29:10 The Early Days Ebay Flipping33:08 $15B Market Growing 100%+34:35 Human Demonstration Business (Teaching Robots)37:00 Micro1's Next Funding RoundMy X:   / gfilche  HyperChange Patreon :)   / hyperchange   Disclaimer: I'm an investor in micro1 personally and through my VC firm HyperGuap. This is not financial advice.

From JP Morgan Banker To $5M Cookie CEO (Without VC Money) Carolyn K. HaelerLearn the mindset and moves that lead to real results. Please visit my website to get more information:http://diversifiedgame.com/

Dave Hersh, co-founder and former CEO of Jive Software, shares the real story behind bootstrapping Jive to $12M in revenue before raising venture capital and scaling aggressively. He explains how fear, comparison, and the pressure to "go big" drove him to abandon his profitable core business and pursue a new upmarket strategy that ultimately cost the company its soul.  After growing to $60 million, Jive eventually went public, but not without internal strain, personal turmoil, and ultimately the realization that the company had drifted away from what made it successful.  Dave discusses how overexpansion, premature scaling, hiring missteps, and market-chasing derail both VC-backed and bootstrapped companies—along with the psychological patterns founders rarely acknowledge.  He shares lessons from his book "Reignition: Transforming Stuck Startups Into Breakout Winners" on why most stuck companies don't need a new strategy—they need a wiser founder who understands their inner operating system and is willing to grow alongside the business. Today Dave coaches founders, writes about the emotional foundations of leadership, and acquires underperforming SaaS companies to "refound" them with more clarity, connection, and human-first strategy. Key Takeaways Founder Psychology Matters — Most stuck companies trace back to subconscious patterns, not strategy failures, and founders must address these to grow. Premature Scaling Kills — Expanding markets or teams too quickly dilutes the core and creates complexity most companies cannot absorb. Core Before Expansion — Winning in a beachhead and protecting the core creates more durable growth than chasing adjacent market too early. Better Growth Pace — Sustainable companies grow at the pace the market allows; forced hypergrowth often destabilizes otherwise healthy businesses. Quote from Dave Hersh, Co-founder and Former CEO of Jive Software "I realized that 90% of stuck companies and failed companies are not the reasons that we say they failed. Like they didn't have product market fit or they ran out of cash or the founders didn't get along. It's the psychology underneath. If you actually look at the source of those problems, It was these very consistent psychological patterns that founders run into. "So hero complex, warrior, imposter syndrome, over identification with the company. It was all of these things that I kept seeing over and over again that led to the decisions that got them stuck. And so, yes, while it's true, they got out competed. Why did they go after the big market? What led them to do that? Why did they try to compete against these companies they were competing against? "And then you start to tap into what's really going on and you see: They're trying to earn validation. They are trying to get redeemed as an entrepreneur. They're trying to live up to their parents, their older sibling, their peer group. And it was that desire that led to them trying to go after this big market and raising too much money that got them stuck. And so I like to work with the source material, which is, Why did you do that?" Links Dave Hersh on LinkedIn Book by Dave Hersh: Reignition: Transforming Stuck Startups into Breakout Winners Dave Hersh website Podcast Sponsor – Fraction This podcast is sponsored by Fraction. Fraction gives you access to senior US-based engineers and CTOs — without full-time costs or hiring risks. Get 10 to 30 hours per week from vetted and experienced US-based talent. Find your next fractional senior engineer or CTO at fraction.work. You can start with a one-week, risk-free trial to test it out. The Practical Founders Podcast Tune into the Practical Founders Podcast for weekly in-depth interviews with founders who have built valuable software companies without big funding. Subscribe to the Practical Founders Podcast using your favorite podcast app or view on our YouTube channel. Get the weekly Practical Founders newsletter and podcast updates at practicalfounders.com. Practical Founders CEO Peer Groups Be part of a committed and confidential group of practical founders creating valuable software companies without big VC funding.  A Practical Founders Peer Group is a committed and confidential group of founders/CEOs who want to help you succeed on your terms. Each Practical Founders Peer Group is personally curated and moderated by Greg Head.

We explore how removing immigration friction and backing immigrant founders at day zero can produce outsized innovation, through the lens of a VC platform and a biotech founder reprogramming tumors with mRNA and AI. The conversation blends policy, venture economics, and a bold oncology thesis with practical advice and personal stories.• immigrant advantage as resilience, clarity, and risk appetite• Unshackled's Day Zero model and economics• technical visionaries and system disruptors archetypes• turning tumors into immune allies with mRNA and AI• off the shelf approach across solid tumors• storytelling skills for technical CEOs• curated community as capital and catalyst• immigration policy takes on points systems and talent pipelines• why fear based rules hurt innovation• reflections on curiosity, kindness, and gritWhat happens when you bet on a founder before there's a product, revenue, or even a company? We bring together Manan Mehta, founding partner at Unshackled Ventures, and Rustam Esanov, co-founder and CEO of Reprogram Biosciences, to unpack how day‑zero investing meets deep tech ambition—and how that mix can upend cancer therapy.Manan opens the curtain on Unshackled's model: underwrite immigrant founders when capital and confidence are scarcest, handle immigration legal end‑to‑end, and curate a community that knows when to introduce the next believer. He breaks down their two founder archetypes—technical visionaries and system disruptors—plus the quotients that matter: intelligence, adversity, emotional, and social. We dig into why early belief earns better economics, how consensus‑driven VC misses mispriced opportunities, and what it takes to move a company from a first experiment to a milestone investors can't ignore.Rustam shares the personal spark behind his mission and the science powering it. Using AI‑guided design and mRNA, his team aims to reprogram tumor cells into immune‑like allies, opening the “fortress” from the inside so the body can attack solid tumors. He explains why an off‑the‑shelf approach beats personalization for scale, how early out‑of‑pocket experiments de‑risked the thesis, and the single most practical lesson he learned transitioning from bench science to CEO: tell a story so clear a teenager can understand it. Manan Mehta: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mananm/Manan Mehta is the Founding Partner of Unshackled Ventures, the only inception-stage (pre-revenue, pre-product, pre-incorporation) venture fund focused entirely on backing immigrant-founded startups.  For over 11 years, Manan has led the firm, which provides capital, network access, and full immigration support, having sponsored over 300 immigration filings for founders, often before they incorporate their businesses. Rustam Esanov:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rustamesanov/Rustam Esanov is the CEO and Co-founder of Reprogram Biosciences, a deep-tech company developing mRNA reprogramming therapeutics.  His mission is to turn tumors into immune-like allies to treat solid cancers by leveraging a proprietary AI platform to build a precision cell-reprogramming engine to solve one of the most complex challenges in medicine.Website: https://www.position2.com/podcast/Rajiv Parikh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajivparikh/Sandeep Parikh: https://www.instagram.com/sandeepparikh/Email us with any feedback for the show: sparkofages.podcast@position2.com

When the world changes, sometimes the best thing you can do is change with it. This week on SUPERWOMEN, Julia Haber, co-founder and CEO of Home From College, shares how she had to pivot her business when the pandemic made everything she had built obsolete. What started as a platform designed for in-person experiences transformed into a digital-first solution to help Gen Z launch their careers. Julia discusses the challenges of pivoting a business, the decisions she had to make to adapt, and the lessons learned about staying flexible and creating new opportunities in our rapidly changing world. Episode Guide: (00:00) Meet Julia Haber, co-founder and CEO of Home From College (02:10) Eleven internships, a college agency, and early burnout (06:24) COVID hits, and Home From College is born (07:43) Reframing failure and managing anxiety (12:13) The co-founder who became Julia's husband (16:16) Turning a simple landing page into a real tech platform (17:48) What Gen Z job seekers want from work (21:02) Helping brands work with Gen Z without losing trust (25:52) What founders misunderstand about VC vs. revenue growth (29:44) Real adaptability is having more than one plan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

在 2025 年初，市场还普遍认为美联储今年可能只会降息一次，为什么它却在下半年连续三次做出了降息的决定？ 美联储是一个怎样的机构，我们应该如何理解它的「公私」属性？降息作为一个工具，会在什么情况下被使用，以期达到怎样的目的？美联储的内部都有哪些派别和争论，作为主席的鲍威尔和曾经提名他的「伯乐」特朗普之间，又在进行怎样的博弈？ 最后，我们也对 2026 年美国经济的发展趋势，以及它可能会给中国和世界带来的影响做了一个推论，欢迎大家在评论区和我们一起讨论。 本期人物 周玖洲 Aaron，资深投资人 &「不止金钱」、「涉市未深」主播 徐涛，声动活泼联合创始人 主要话题 [03:41] 为什么说美联储披着「私有」的外壳，但权力核心却是「公有」的？ [08:38] 降息政策的目的是什么：控制通货膨胀 & 保障充分就业 [13:53] 美联储做出降息决定依据的数据是什么 [20:33] 美联储的内部派系和各自的利益诉求 [26:48] 特朗普与鲍威尔正在进行怎样的博弈 [35:21] 2026 的美国经济会走向何方 [40:49] 美国的变化会给中国乃至世界传递怎样的影响？ 给声东击西投稿 「声东击西」一直在寻找来自不同社会和群体的真实声音。我们曾经采访过为特朗普竞选生产 MAGA 帽子的中国制造商、记录过七位在美国大选中经历起伏的华人个体，也讲述了签证突然被取消的在美留学生的故事。 如果你也有一些特别的经历、观察或想法，不论是亲身体验的故事，还是你在某个行业、社区中的所见所闻，都欢迎你向我们投稿。 你的声音可能出现在未来的节目当中，我们非常期待你的分享！ 投稿入口 (https://eg76rdcl6g.feishu.cn/share/base/form/shrcne1CGVaSeJwtBriW6yNT2dg) 你也可以直接通过邮箱直接联系节目组：kexuan@shengfm.cn Knock Knock世界 我们另一档节目「Knock Knock世界」的编辑们前一阵去到了「世界顶尖科学家论坛」现场，采访了世界各地、不同领域的科学家。采访也制作成 2 期节目，可以免费收听。 其中一期采访了荷兰物理天文学家宁克。她不仅在博士期间就有重大发现，还兴趣众多，热爱骑车、跳舞、会讲脱口秀，节目里讲了讲为什么她从众多爱好中选择了物理天文学、这是个怎样的职业。第二期节目采访了阮淑娟教授，她领导着美国顶尖实验室，也是美国工程院院士，曾经的她生活十分困难，20 多岁时连英语还不怎么会说。这期节目讲了讲阮淑娟在困顿时如何找寻并实现自己，当下的我们可以如何参考。 收听链接： 宁克：我们采访到了一位会讲脱口秀的「物理天文学家」！ (https://sourl.co/pm64iF) 阮淑娟：在「没有电」的环境里长大的女孩，如何成长为一位顶尖科学家？ (https://sourl.co/Td3ah4) 加入我们 声动活泼目前开放【商业发展经理、节目监制，以及内容实习生（可远程）、早咖啡实习生、商业实习生和运营实习生】岗位，详情点击招聘入口：加入声动活泼（在招职位速览） (https://eg76rdcl6g.feishu.cn/docx/XO6bd12aGoI4j0xmAMoc4vS7nBh)，点击相应链接即可查看岗位详情及投递指南。 招聘 https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/8/8dd8a56f-9636-415a-8c00-f9ca6778e511/1TCNqViU.jpg 幕后制作 监制：可宣 后期：赛德 运营：George 设计：饭团 商务合作 声动活泼商业化小队，点击链接可直达商务会客厅（商务会客厅链接：https://sourl.cn/QDhnEc ），也可发送邮件至 business@shengfm.cn 联系我们。 关于声动活泼 「用声音碰撞世界」，声动活泼致力于为人们提供源源不断的思考养料。 我们还有这些播客：不止金钱（2024 全新发布） (https://www.xiaoyuzhoufm.com/podcast/65a625966d045a7f5e0b5640)、跳进兔子洞第三季（2024 全新发布） (https://www.xiaoyuzhoufm.com/podcast/666c0ad1c26e396a36c6ee2a)、声东击西 (https://etw.fm/episodes)、声动早咖啡 (https://sheng-espresso.fireside.fm/)、What's Next｜科技早知道 (https://guiguzaozhidao.fireside.fm/episodes)、反潮流俱乐部 (https://fanchaoliuclub.fireside.fm/)、泡腾 VC (https://popvc.fireside.fm/)、商业WHY酱 (https://msbussinesswhy.fireside.fm/) 欢迎在即刻 (https://okjk.co/Qd43ia)、微博等社交媒体上与我们互动，搜索 声动活泼 即可找到我们。 也欢迎你写邮件和我们联系，邮箱地址是：ting@sheng.fm 获取更多和声动活泼有关的讯息，你也可以扫码添加声小音，在节目之外和我们保持联系！ 声东击西 https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/8/8dd8a56f-9636-415a-8c00-f9ca6778e511/wEYE7jJa.jpg Special Guest: 周玖洲 Aaron.

This week on The Data Minute, Peter sits down with Ben Orthlieb, Founding Partner at Blue Moon VC, for a look under the hood of a firm that has completely re-engineered the venture capital process using AI.Ben explains how Blue Moon uses a proprietary tech stack to source over 12,000 teams a year and screen them down to the top 5% based on their probability of graduating to Series B, achieving performance metrics that rival top-tier firms without the massive headcount. He breaks down why the "warm intro" is obsolete, how sending AI-generated dossiers to founders results in a 75% meeting acceptance rate, and why human judgment is still the final decision-maker.They also discuss the "hollowing middle" of the venture market, why multi-billion dollar funds struggle to innovate their own workflows, and how a small check strategy allows Blue Moon to cooperate, rather than compete, with the biggest names in the industry.Subscribe to Carta's weekly Data Minute newsletter: https://carta.com/subscribe/data-newsletter-sign-up/Explore interactive startup and VC data, with Carta's Data Desk: https://carta.com/data-desk/Chapters00:00 – Intro: The AI-first VC01:27 – Blue Moon's thesis: Coverage and Winning03:11 – How to source 12,000 teams a year without a network05:40 – "Machine learning instinct": Optimizing for Series B graduation07:44 – Backtesting the algorithm against top 50 Seed firms10:12 – The 75% meeting conversion rate (and why cold email works)12:30 – The "AI Dossier": Showing founders you did the work14:13 – Finding outliers outside the "Credibility Pool" (The Mercor story)16:05 – The investment process: Where AI ends and humans begin18:43 – Does it matter who else is on the cap table?23:36 – The "Small Check" advantage in winning allocation25:22 – How to interview for resilience30:20 – Why personal questions are a competitive advantage32:31 – Follow-ons, reserves, and systematic secondaries36:00 – Why haven't big funds copied this strategy yet?39:54 – The "hollowing middle" of the VC market44:40 – Why brand is the only defense against noise49:20 – Do warm intros actually result in better investments?52:46 – The future of the "Operator-VC" model56:00 – What LPs really think about an AI-driven fund59:07 – OutroThis presentation contains general information only and eShares, Inc. dba Carta, Inc. (“Carta”) is not, by means of this publication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services, and is for informational purposes only.  This presentation is not a substitute for such professional advice or services nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business or interests. © 2025 eShares, Inc., dba Carta, Inc. All rights reserved.

Eliza Lochner is a seasoned marketing leader with experience spanning Fortune 500 companies and high-growth startups. She leads global marketing for Airbnb's real estate development partnerships and new supply initiatives, including the Airbnb Friendly Apartments program, which helps renters earn supplemental income while giving property owners transparency, controls, and new revenue opportunities. Passionate about building human connections that fuel business growth, Eliza focuses on partnerships at the intersection of housing affordability, flexibility, and real estate innovation.(01:30) - Airbnb-friendly Apartments (02:55) - Addressing Housing Affordability(04:34) - Owner & Property Manager Controls(06:28) - Program Success & Expansion(09:25) - Impact on Resident & Investor Attraction(14:24) - Revenue Sharing & Incentives(18:56) - Building Trust with Property Managers(21:14) - Blueprint - The Future of Real Estate - Register for 2026: The Premier Event for Industry Executives, Real Estate & Construction Tech Startups and VC's, at The Venetian, Las Vegas on September 22nd-24th, 2026. As a friend of Tangent, you can save $300 on your All-Access pass(22:05) - Channel Partners & Distribution Strategy(24:00) - Boutique Hotels Partnerships(25:45) - Major Events: World Cup and Olympics(29:43) - Future of Airbnb Friendly Buildings Program(31:26) - Collaboration Superpower: Michelle Obama & Eumaeus (Wiki)

The smart money is capitalizing on the strong M&A market and valuations to exit investments. In this month's Tech M&A Monthly webcast, we'll explore five key reasons why VC and PE funds are heading for the exits—and what it means for your business. Are you watching what the smart money is doing? You should.  What else will be covered? Special report: Understanding Working Capital Current Tech M&A market trends Valuations across all 6 tech sectors November megadeal report Learn why Tech CEOs and Founders should be watching the PE and VC exit trends. --------------------------------------------------------------- Corum's Tech M&A Monthly is a regular podcast series for software company owners, executives and CEOs. Each month, Corum Group, the world's leading M&A firm for software and related technology companies, examines the world of Tech M&A. In addition, Tech M&A Monthly includes special reports on buyers, markets and the M&A process itself. This thirty-minute podcast is a must for owners and CEOs considering Tech M&A, whether now or in the future.

From chief marketing officer at the first internet bank to building the leading annuity platform for RIAs, David Lau shares proven strategies for raising capital, navigating public company challenges, and why converting commission-based revenue to fee-based can multiply your exit value by five times. In this episode of the DealQuest Podcast, host Corey Kupfer sits down with David Lau, founder and CEO of DPL Financial Partners, who has raised over $500 million across multiple ventures and built DPL into a platform serving more than 10,000 advisors at over 3,500 RIA firms. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: In this episode, you'll discover why organic growth matters far more than market growth when acquirers evaluate your business, how converting commission-based annuity business to fee-based can multiply both your revenue and your exit multiple, the real tradeoffs of taking institutional capital and signing up for aggressive growth, the critical difference between venture capitalist optimism and private equity scrutiny, and how recognizing when your business has "run its course" can open the door to building something bigger. DAVID'S JOURNEY: David's career began as chief marketing officer of Telebank, the first internet bank, where he helped raise over $500 million. When preparing to go public, the stock jumped from $17 to $150 in weeks before Goldman Sachs stabilized pricing at $105. He later built Jefferson National, an insurance carrier he sold to Nationwide. That experience taught him the valuable part was distribution, not the capital-intensive balance sheet, leading directly to founding DPL in 2018. KEY INSIGHTS: A billionaire David met admitted he "mistook a bull market for brilliance." Acquirers only pay premium multiples for organic growth. If you did nothing different over the last decade as an RIA, you're making twice as much just from market performance. Buyers know this. Converting from commission to fee-based transforms exit potential with three times the revenue and five times the multiple, while expanding your buyer pool. DPL's technology reviews 2,500 policies per hour, and a significant portion of DPL's $4 billion in annuity sales were M&A related. When launching DPL, David planned to bootstrap until meeting Todd Boehly. Taking institutional capital means signing up for aggressive growth where some team members won't make it to the next stage. Venture capitalists are optimists who see your vision. Private equity investors see everything that can go wrong. Perfect for RIA owners considering M&A, hybrid advisors evaluating fee-based transitions, and entrepreneurs weighing capital raising decisions. FOR MORE ON THIS EPISODE: https://www.coreykupfer.com/blog/davidlau FOR MORE ON DAVID LAU: https://www.dplfp.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-lau-b6449b7/ https://x.com/dpl_fp FOR MORE ON COREY KUPFER: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreykupfer/ https://www.coreykupfer.com/ Corey Kupfer is an expert strategist, negotiator, and dealmaker. He has more than 35 years of professional deal-making and negotiating experience. Corey is a successful entrepreneur, attorney, consultant, author, and professional speaker. He is deeply passionate about deal-driven growth. He is also the creator and host of the DealQuest Podcast. Get deal-ready with the DealQuest Podcast with Corey Kupfer, where like-minded entrepreneurs and business leaders converge, share insights and challenges, and success stories. Equip yourself with the tools, resources, and support necessary to navigate the complex yet rewarding world of dealmaking. Dive into the world of deal-driven growth today! Episode Highlights with Timestamps [00:00] - Introduction: David Lau's journey to building DPL Financial Partners [04:00] - Capital raising at Telebank: $500 million raised, stock jumping from $17 to $150 [08:00] - The tradeoffs of taking institutional capital and signing up for aggressive growth [12:00] - Venture capitalists as optimists versus private equity investors who see downside [16:00] - Why choosing the right capital partners matters more than just getting funded [20:00] - How DPL solved the RIA insurance problem with commission-free products [24:00] - Converting to fee-based: Three times the revenue and five times the multiple [28:00] - Why organic growth matters more than market growth in valuations [33:00] - The future of RIA consolidation and when to sell a business [40:00] - Freedom: Working with Russian defectors and gaining perspective Guest Bio David Lau is founder and CEO of DPL Financial Partners, the leading annuity platform for RIAs. Since 2018, DPL has worked with 20 insurance carriers and built an advisor base of more than 10,000 advisors from over 3,500 RIA firms. Before founding DPL, David was COO of Jefferson National, which he helped build and sell to Nationwide. Earlier, he served as chief marketing officer at Telebank, the first internet bank, where he helped raise over $500 million. His work has been covered in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Barron's, and CNBC. DPL is backed by Todd Boehly's Eldridge and Bob Diamond's Atlas Merchant Capital. Host Bio Corey Kupfer is an expert strategist, negotiator, and dealmaker with more than 35 years of professional deal-making and negotiating experience. Corey is a successful entrepreneur, attorney, consultant, author, and professional speaker deeply passionate about deal-driven growth. He is the creator and host of the DealQuest Podcast. Show Description Do you want your business to grow faster? The DealQuest Podcast with Corey Kupfer reveals how successful entrepreneurs and business leaders use strategic deals to accelerate growth. From large mergers and acquisitions to capital raising, joint ventures, strategic alliances, real estate deals, and more, this show discusses the full spectrum of deal-driven growth strategies. Get the confidence to pursue deals that will help your company scale faster. Related Episodes Episode 350 - When NOT to Take Venture Capital with Tom Dillon: Explore alternative funding sources when traditional VC doesn't fit your exit strategy. Episode 339 - Next-Gen Leadership and M&A: Why G2 Matters: Understand why developing Generation 2 leadership commands premium valuations. Episode 209 - M&A Talk with Leading RIA Aggregators and Integrators: Bob Oros of Hightower Advisors: Explore what aggregators look for in acquisition targets. Social Media Follow DealQuest Podcast: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreykupfer/ Website: https://www.coreykupfer.com/ Follow David Lau: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-lau-b6449b7/ Company: https://www.dplfp.com Twitter/X: https://x.com/dpl_fp Keywords/Tags s RIA M&A, capital raising, fee-based revenue, commission-free annuities, DPL Financial Partners, organic growth, enterprise value, hybrid advisor transition, RIA consolidation, private equity, venture capital, going public, IPO, exit strategy, insurance for RIAs, annuity platform, wealth management M&A, financial services, startup funding, institutional capital, valuation multiples, deal structures, business growth strategies, dealmaking

From time to time, we'll re-air a previous episode of the show that our newer audience may have missed. During this episode, Santosh is joined by Alex Yaseen, Founder and CEO of Parabola, the spreadsheet alternative where you combine the data running throughout your company and create automated processes. In this conversation, Santosh and Alex discuss the limitations of traditional spreadsheets in data management and how Parabola offers a collaborative, user-friendly platform for non-technical users. Alex explains how Parabola automates repetitive tasks, integrates various data sources, and enhances collaboration, thereby addressing common issues like data silos and version control. The episode underscores the importance of robust data infrastructure for leveraging AI and machine learning, highlighting Parabola's role in streamlining supply chain operations, and so much more. Highlights from their conversation include:Overview of Parabola (1:20)Alex's Background Leading to Founding Parabola (2:51)Features of Parabola (6:14)Skepticism Towards Spreadsheets (10:16)Customer Examples (14:10)Importance of Data Infrastructure (16:45)Combining Expertise with AI (19:14)A Founder's Journey (20:40)The First Marketing Hire in B2B Businesses (21:10)Getting Attention in Legacy Industries (24:26)Focus and Prioritization (27:36)Managing Team Dynamics (29:14)Segment: This or That? to Close the Episode (30:06)Dynamo is a VC firm led by supply chain and mobility specialists that focus on seed-stage, enterprise startups.Find out more at: https://www.dynamo.vc/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#MentorshipPodcast #FinanceCareer #ConsultingJourney #BCG #Vision2030 #CareerGrowth #InternationalBusiness #leadershiplessons Claudio shares his incredible global journey — from starting in European finance and insurance, to working on Vision 2030 transformation projects in Saudi Arabia, and later joining BCG in management consulting. His story is a masterclass in adaptability, mentorship, and lifelong learning across borders.

12 月 3 日，蓝箭航天自主研制的朱雀三号可重复使用运载火箭迎来首飞：二级成功进入预定轨道，一级回收在最后阶段遗憾失利，但整体飞行已是中国商业航天在「回收复用」道路上的一次关键跨越。朱雀三号从设计之初就对标 SpaceX 的猎鹰 9 号，采用相似的两级构型，并且首飞即挑战回收，同时在推进剂和材料上选择了液氧甲烷与不锈钢这条更偏向高频复用的技术路线。 本期节目我们邀请到 蓝箭航天朱雀三号总体副总师董锴，从一线工程师视角，系统拆解这次首飞任务的真实得失，另外我们也深入讨论了为什么中国的可回收火箭普遍走向“猎鹰 9 构型”，朱雀三号此次回收究竟难在何处，以及可重复使用火箭对中国商业航天未来意味着什么。 本期人物 董锴 蓝箭航天朱雀三号可复用火箭型号副总师 Yaxian，「科技早知道」主播 主要话题 [02:37] 朱雀三号是一型什么样的火箭？ - 中大型两级液体火箭，液氧甲烷推进剂 - 从立项之初就以“可重复使用”为第一目标 - 「青春版」vs. 「完全体」，两者差在哪？ [05:13] 朱雀三号是「国产猎鹰 9」吗？ - 国内多数可回收火箭选择了与猎鹰 9 相似的工程构型 - 这是基于工程验证后的“合理性选择”，而非简单模仿 - 猎鹰 9 是目前唯一经过长期运营验证的可复用火箭标杆 [10:24] 这次首飞在工程上是如何打分的？ - 入轨和回收是两套独立评定标准，并非单选题 - 回收标准非常直接：是否稳定立住并保持一分钟 [19:33] 为什么选择液氧甲烷 + 不锈钢这条路线？ - 工程上不存在“先进或落后”，只有是否服务于目标 - 关键考量是降低维护需求、提高复用频率 - 相比物料成本，工程师更在意时间成本 [38:33] 一级回收全过程是如何设计的？难点在哪？ - 分离后依次经历 80km 减速点火、气动控制、4km 着陆点火 - 栅格舵与边条翼用于气动段姿态与攻角控制 - 着陆阶段采用五台发动机序列点火，为首飞保留冗余 [52:26] 商业化与下一步：朱雀三号接下来怎么走？ - 可复用火箭的核心价值在于放大单位时间投放能力 - 遥二飞行预计在明年，目标是完成回收 - 更长远方向是更高频次发射与更大级别的全复用火箭 往期节目 从筚路蓝缕到做大做强，从「星舰」进化史看中国商业航天的发展与未来 (https://www.xiaoyuzhoufm.com/episode/67111cacd9a875d5a9827c46) AEO 闭门会 在上一期节目中，我们收到了很多关于 AEO（Answer Engine Optimization） 的评论和反馈。 1 月 11 日， CES 结束之后我们将在硅谷组织一场小规模闭门交流，邀请在这个领域有较早探索的公司和产品以及AI平台与搜索引擎相关嘉宾一起来讨论： • AEO 在 AI 产品出海中的最新实践 • ChatGPT、Perplexity 等 AI 搜索入口的变化 • Reddit 等技术社区在 AEO 中的角色 • 当前阶段哪些方法有效，哪些值得谨慎对待 这将是一场以交流和讨论为主的闭门会，如果你有兴趣参与，请通过下方链接填写报名表。 我们将根据报名情况 定向发出邀请。

Why has Acquired — seemingly against all odds — “worked”? It's a puzzling question: episodes are four hours long, they come out infrequently, and they usually don't have guests or video. Hardly the standard-issue playbook for podcasting success! And yet well over a million smart, curious and exceedingly busy humans share their (your!) valuable time with us every month. Why? This is the exact paradox that has been rolling around in the head of Michael Lewis (yes, that Michael Lewis) since he found the show earlier this year.So we asked Michael to be our guest "interlocutor" and share what he thinks is going on here, while we share ten lessons we've stolen (graciously) from companies we've studied and brought into Acquired itself. He takes us through the entire Acquired journey: how we started, why we've never hired anyone or raised money, how we pick episodes, what our business model actually is, why we focus on quality and enjoyment over maximizing enterprise value, and ultimately why we're all — you, him, us — kindred spirits together. Oh, and just for fun, we recorded this episode where another special journey began — the garage where Google was founded.Thank you for an incredible decade together… here's to the next one!Thank-yous:First, to Google for loaning us the garage. The sawhorse table desk, PC and CRT monitor on display in the background were all Google originals courtesy of the Google Founders Collection at the Computer History Museum. So cool!Second, to our friends at Shep Films for helping us seriously up our game on production quality this episode!Sponsors:Many thanks to our fantastic Fall ‘25 Season partners:J.P. Morgan Payments (you can watch our full show with them at AWS re:Invent here!)WorkOSSentryShopifyOur Favorite Michael Lewis Books:Home GameMoneyballLiar's PokerThe Blind SideThe Undoing Project (as referenced by Michael in the beginning, about Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky)Carve Outs:Books: The Name of the Wind by Patrick RothfussScience, the Endless Frontier by Vannevar BushLast Man Standing: The Ascent of Jamie Dimon and JPMorgan Chase by Duff McDonaldThe Art of Spending Money by Morgan HouselEmperors of Chocolate by Joel Glenn BrennerMorris Chang's AutobiographyPodcasts: Against the RulesRevisionist HistorySmartLessThe DailyThe Bill Simmons PodcastGraham Duncan on Invest Like the BestGlue GuysVideo: Jay KellyThe RehearsalDoug DeMuroTiresF1 The MovieAndorFalloutSeveranceSiloVideo Games: Sea of StarsKirby and the Forgotten LandProducts: ARTEZA Rollerball Pen 0.7mm FineRotring 800 Mechanical PencilFujifilm X100VIUniqlo Socks!On Running ShoesRimowa LuggageParenting: Guided Access on iPadToy StorySlumberPodBluey Experience in NYCMore Acquired:Get email updates and vote on future episodes!Join the SlackSubscribe to ACQ2Check out the latest swag in the ACQ Merch Store!‍Note: Acquired hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.

In a climate-aware world, can venture capital truly be a force for good? Join us as we speak with Michael Smith, co-founder of Regeneration.VC, a firm dedicated to reshaping consumer value chains through the lens of environmental regeneration. While the firm is known for its strategic advisor Leonardo DiCaprio, the real stars of this show are the revolutionary businesses Michael and his team are funding. Michael reveals how Regeneration.VC applies a rigorous, nature-first approach to funding innovation: The CRISP Measurement System: Learn about the Circular Regenerative Investment Sustainability Protocol (CRISP), the firm's proprietary method for ensuring that investments actively contribute to environmental healing and, critically, "do no harm." Michael explains how this system uses strict negative screens to avoid environmentally destructive practices from the start. The Toxics Challenge: Michael details the urgent, often-overlooked threat of toxic materials in consumer products, especially in industries like apparel manufacturing, and how Regeneration.VC targets companies dedicated to eliminating these harmful chemicals from our planet and our lives. Success in Circularity: Discover compelling case studies, including an investment in a company that transforms waste from the seafood industry into a compostable, soil-enriching alternative to Styrofoam. Impact vs. Returns: Michael shares his personal journey to impact investing and provides insight into the challenges and opportunities of aligning financial goals with a desire to contribute positively to the planet. This conversation offers a deep dive into how strategic capital can move beyond mere sustainability and actively drive a regenerative future. Takeaways Investing with nature in mind is crucial for sustainability. The CRISP measurement system helps ensure no harm is done. Impact investing can yield profitable returns while doing good. Reducing waste and increasing efficiency is key to circularity. Toxics in consumer products are a growing concern. Carbon markets are evolving, but challenges remain. Voluntary carbon markets show promise for innovation. Mycelium packaging startups face scalability challenges. Optimism is growing in the nature technology sector. Innovative business models can drive positive change for the planet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices