Podcasts about Venture

There's something satisfying about hammering through a muddy trail and then cruising home comfortably on pavement. That's exactly the kind of performance Kumho Tire targeted with the new Road Venture RT, its new rugged-terrain tire built for trucks and SUVs. The Road Venture RT sits between Kumho's all-terrain and mud-terrain offerings, giving drivers weekday comfort and weekend capability.We hit Hyundai Motor Group's California Proving Grounds in the Mojave Desert to test the Road Venture RT across four distinct driving modules: mud, pavement, trails, and water-soaked autocross.Kumho Tire Road Venture RT TechnologyKumho said it designed the tread to be aggressive and look like it can conquer any terrain, both on- and off-road. The design, robust construction, and new compound technologies enhance that, according to the manufacturer.Rick Cunat, Managing Director at Kumho America Technical Center, said the design details deliver more than just looks. "These features give the Road Venture RT an advantage in off-road applications," he said. "The angled sipes and zigzag grooves provide a high number of biting edges that allow the Road Venture RT to achieve high traction. These features enable the tire to achieve a high level of performance in snow and off-road."Coming This FallThe Road Venture RT will be available in 27 initial sizes from 17- to 22-inch fitments. Kumho will release more sizes in 2026. It includes a 30-day satisfaction trial, road hazard warranty, and a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty.Watch the episode to see how Kumho's Road Venture RT performs across multiple conditions from the Mojave Desert.

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we welcome back Ray Wang, principal analyst and CEO of Constellation Research, for a dynamic discussion on technology's future. We explore the explosive rise of AI-native companies, the shifting global tech landscape, and the urgent need for U.S. manufacturing revitalization. Ray also highlights NVIDIA's dominance in AI, the U.S.-China tech rivalry, and challenges facing Western innovation. The conversation addresses local governance, inefficiencies in public spending, and the importance of community-focused leadership. Insightful and timely, the episode offers a candid look at the opportunities and risks shaping tomorrow's tech-driven world. You're listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let's go. Ray Wang on the Rise of AI Exponential Companies: Redefining Tech's Competitive Landscape The tech industry is undergoing a radical shift as “AI exponentials” redefine how companies launch, scale, and compete. Coined by Christopher Lochhead and analyst Ray Wang, these ultra-lean ventures harness artificial intelligence to achieve extraordinary efficiency, often generating tens of millions in annual recurring revenue with only a few employees. ServiceNow's rise to a $180 billion market cap illustrates the long arc of cloud innovation, but today's startups push the model further. Sites like tinyteams.xyz track firms posting up to $20 million ARR per employee, while projects such as Turbo Learn AI, built by college dropouts using only ChatGPT, AWS, and Perplexity, show how minimal capital can now create high-impact software. This “atomization” of business echoes biotech's disruption of big pharma: innovation emerges outside legacy giants, who increasingly serve merely as distribution channels. The next frontier may be one-person, billion-dollar enterprises, unleashing vast creative potential while reshaping society. Ray Wang on the White Collar Recession and the AI-Driven Future of Work Ray Wang warns that the world is entering the largest White-Collar Recession yet, driven by rapid automation and AI. Tech giants like Microsoft and Nvidia expect to double revenue without adding comparable headcount, transforming the workplace from a broad pyramid into a narrow diamond. This shift threatens entry-level and managerial roles, leaving young workers with limited opportunities and older professionals facing displacement despite valuable expertise. Rather than simple layoffs, Ray sees an evolution of work. Experienced knowledge workers, equipped with affordable, scalable tools, are more likely to launch their own ventures than climb shrinking corporate ladders. Venture capital, built for slower, capital-heavy startups, struggles to keep pace as AI founders can bootstrap to profitability. The next two years, he predicts, will usher in a golden age of AI entrepreneurship. Yet this transformation raises urgent questions about mentorship, economic mobility, and how society will adapt alongside technological progress. Geopolitical AI, the US-China Cold War, and the Battle for Humanity's Future Ray Wang casts the US–China tech rivalry as a defining struggle for humanity's future: one fought with chips, algorithms, and influence rather than weapons. He contrasts China's centralized, surveillance-driven AI model with the West's ideal of decentralized abundance and freedom. This conflict, simmering for over a decade, now plays out in debates over chip exports, data sovereignty, and social-media persuasion wars. America currently holds a three-year chip advantage through companies like Nvidia, which dominate both hardware and AI software ecosystems. But Wang warns this lead is fragile: Chinese engineers are skilled, manufacturing capacity is world-class, and Europe risks irrelevance unless it chooses a side.

The apps and websites we use every day depend on systems most of us never see.Jay Kreps joins Joubin Mirzadegan to share how Confluent became the ‘central nervous system' for companies like Expedia and eBay, letting them respond to business operations instantly.They also break down why the myth of AI-driven efficiency falls short, and why building truly transformative companies takes far longer than most people expect.​Guest: Jay Kreps, Co-Founder & CEO of ConfluentConnect with JayXLinkedInConnect with JoubinXLinkedInEmail: grit@kleinerperkins.com​Learn more about Kleiner Perkins

Small businesses and managed service providers (MSPs) are currently facing a significant labor squeeze, with many unfilled job openings despite a backdrop of economic growth. According to recent reports, a notable percentage of small business owners are struggling to find qualified candidates, particularly in sectors like construction and manufacturing. The IT job market is also experiencing a downturn, with a rising unemployment rate among IT professionals, highlighting the challenges in finding the right talent for emerging technologies such as AI and blockchain. This situation is forcing businesses to rethink their talent strategies and consider automation and advisory services as solutions to labor shortages.Venture capital is increasingly flowing into AI-driven startups, particularly those targeting the managed service provider sector. A significant portion of venture capital investment is now directed towards AI, with companies like Titan aiming to roll up MSPs and enhance their operations through automation and AI technologies. This trend indicates a shift in the business landscape, where traditional service models may be disrupted by new entrants leveraging AI to improve efficiency and reduce costs. The potential for these companies to scale rapidly raises concerns for existing service providers, who may find themselves competing against automated solutions.The integration of AI in the workplace is accelerating, with a growing number of employees utilizing AI tools for various professional tasks. However, a recent study reveals that a staggering 95% of corporate AI projects fail to deliver significant revenue increases, often leading to data breaches and other complications. This disconnect between enthusiasm for AI and its practical implementation presents an opportunity for service providers to step in and guide clients through the complexities of AI integration. By offering strategic advice and support, providers can help businesses turn AI from a mere novelty into a valuable asset that addresses workforce challenges.The consulting industry is also undergoing a transformation, with a decline in job postings and a shift towards specialized expertise. As AI consultants emerge, traditional consulting firms are feeling the pressure, particularly in entry-level positions. This trend mirrors past experiences where new consultants capitalized on emerging technologies, potentially undermining established providers. To remain competitive, managed service providers must adapt by developing their own AI capabilities or partnering with other vendors. By doing so, they can maintain their relevance and ensure they are not sidelined by new entrants promising quick solutions without the necessary technical depth.Four things to know today 00:00 From Construction to Code: Job Market Turbulence Highlights SMB Strain and MSP Talent Gap04:44 VC Bets Show MSPs Are Prime Target for AI Disruption and Consolidation06:58 Shadow IT Goes Mainstream: Employees Embrace AI While Corporate Projects Flounder10:24 Consulting in Crisis: AI Cuts Entry Roles While New “AI Consultants” Chase Clients Directly This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://scalepad.com/dave/, https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship  Webinar:   https://bit.ly/msprmail All our Sponsors: https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week Pastor Brandon continues our new series Break Free with a powerful message on overcoming strongholds. Strongholds are real. They can hold our thoughts captive, distort how we see ourselves, and keep us chained in fear and sin. But the good news of the gospel is that we are not powerless. The Spirit of Christ lives in us, and that means we have the spirit of a fighter inside of us. Through Ephesians 6 and the armor of God, we're reminded that God has equipped us with everything we need to stand firm against the enemy's schemes:

S4:E188 David covers The Weekly Insights into Venture and then Paul interviews Grady Johnson, Executive Director at The Harbor Entrepreneur Center in Charleston, SC. He talks about the dramatic growth of the startup ecosystem in Charleston, the kind of companies they attract, their Mentors and how Harbor supports them. (interview recorded 9.4.25)Rebecca Szkutak's article on The Golden Age of Robotics at TechCrunchFollow David and Paul: https://x.com/DGRollingSouth https://x.com/PalmettoAngel Connect On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgrisell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulclarkprivateequity/ We invite your feedback and suggestions at www.ventureinthesouth.com or email david@ventureinthesouth.com. Learn more about RollingSouth at rollingsouth.vc or email david@rollingsouth.vc.

Sponsored by Sentry Computing Keeping the technology essential to your business safe and performing optimally can be challenging! With Sentry Computing — the IT partner of choice for businesses of all sizes — you get thoughtful human interaction and innovative professional IT services. Boost productivity and eliminate financial risks with Managed IT, Cybersecurity, AI Consulting, Cloud Consulting, and Business Automation.

At EUVC Summit 2025, one of the most animated sessions wasn't about regulation or returns—it was about size.Fund size.“You need to back small, early, and smart.”— ChloéWhile some claimed that fund size isn't predictive of returns, this panel pushed back with a powerful rebuttal: in early-stage venture, size absolutely matters—and skin in the game matters even more.Chloé laid out the logic:The earlier you invest, the lower the probability of hitting a mega outcomeBut the smaller your fund, the greater your exposure to uncapped upside“No one thought a $100M fund was too large in the early 2000s. But back then, a $1B exit was 99th percentile. Today? That's just 85th. A $20B exit is the new 99th percentile.”In short: outcomes have scaled dramatically—but fund sizes have ballooned even faster.If you want real multiples, you can't rely on average returns. You need asymmetric upside.“Average venture-backed exit valuation? Still around $100M.”That stat alone makes a strong case for micro-funds.→ A $5B mega fund might get you into elite cap tables—but you're unlikely to 10x→ A $30–50M fund? One breakout and you're a rocketshipAnd the panel made it clear: LPs chasing “safe” strategies may be missing the real alpha generators.The panel also poked fun at outdated VC modeling tools:“Can we finally stop using the Page & Associates PDF?”(Amen.)This wasn't just a critique of stale math—it was a call for more creative, conviction-led underwriting in a world where category winners look radically different than they did two decades ago.“We're not looking for averagely good returns. We're backing for uncapped upside.”That's the ethos driving many LPs toward emerging managers and micro funds.Not to mention the sense of alignment, focus, and nimbleness that often fades in billion-dollar vehicles.This panel had heat—and it wasn't done.“Happy to do this again. On a podcast. Longer. Louder.”Count us in.The Case for Small Funds: Math, Mindset, and MultiplesThe Uncomfortable Truth: Most VC Exits Are Still SmallPage & Associates: Retire the TemplateFund Size Isn't Just Capital—It's PhilosophyComing Soon… A Podcast Debate?

Send us a textRebekah Neeley from Neeley Family Distillery joins us to share their latest innovations and a tasting of uniquely finished whiskeys from their Sparta, Kentucky distillery. From their upcoming three-chamber still to award-winning experimental finishes, Rebecca demonstrates why small, family-owned distilleries are at the forefront of bourbon innovation.• Neely is installing a three-chamber still, becoming only the fourth operational one in the world• Cypress fermenters impart the distinct "Neely funk" that distinguishes their flavor profile• Their absinthe has won three consecutive double golds and a platinum medal• Rebekah guides us through tastings of sake-finished bourbon, sauternes finish, tequila finish, and acacia wood finish• The distillery offers quarter and half barrel picks to make barrel selection more accessible• Rebekah's first official blend showcases her blending skills and understanding of everyday bourbon drinkers• Visitors can fill their own bottles and personalize labels at the distillery• Located at Exit 55 off Interstate 71 between Louisville and CincinnatiRemember to stop by Neeley Family Distillery when traveling - they have rocking chairs, a cigar area, and some of the cleanest bathrooms around. Live your life uncut and unfiltered.Venture into the heart of Kentucky bourbon country as we sit down with Rebekah Neeley at the speakeasy of Neeley Family Distillery. This episode uncorks the fascinating evolution of a craft distillery that's balancing tradition with bold innovation.Rebekah shares exciting news about their upcoming three-chamber still installation—set to make them only the fourth distillery in the world with this equipment. The "Icon," as it's officially named, will produce heavier, more viscous distillate that opens new possibilities for their whiskey portfolio. We explore why Neely maintains cypress fermenters when many have switched to stainless steel, and how these wooden vessels create what Rebekah calls "the Neeley funk"—that distinctive character that makes their spirits uniquely theirs.The heart of our visit features an extraordinary tasting journey through Neely's experimental finished whiskeys. Rebekah guides us through their sake barrel-finished four-grain bourbon with delicate melon notes, an award-winning sauternes finish, a complex tequila-finished expression with chocolate and berry characteristics, and perhaps most surprisingly, an acacia wood-finished bourbon with barbecue-like qualities. We also sample Rebecca's first official blend—a carefully crafted seven-barrel marriage designed as an approachable daily sipper.What makes Neeley special extends beyond the liquid. Their quarter and half-barrel options make single barrel selections accessible to smaller groups, while their fill-your-own-bottle program creates meaningful personalized experiences for visitors. Rebekah shares touching stories of how this simple offering has created powerful moments—from future 21st birthday gifts to heartfelt thank-you presents for hospital staff.Whether you're planning your Kentucky bourbon trail adventure or simply seeking inspiration from craft distilling innovation, join us for this deep dive into what makes small, family-owned distilleries the creative heartbeat of American whiskey. Subscribe now and discover your next bourbon adventure! Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

A rapid-fire portfolio update. Flagstaff's Route 66 keeps humming—cash flowing, zero evictions, major systems renewed—and graduates into our long-hold REIT. In Phoenix, 12th Place and 36th Street have stabilized with fixed-rate refis after meaningful debt paydowns, while 52nd's patio and unit upgrades are leasing above expectations. We close with Venture on Maryland: fully funded, ~$2M in targeted renovations, and a clear path to close the rent-to-market gap—plus quick hits on Country Club's fire-system approvals and steady performance at the I-17 townhomes.      

Today's guest is Dave Thornton, co-founder & Chief Customer Officer of Vested, which helps startup employees unlock the value in their equity. In today's episode, Dave walks through the messy reality of startup stock options, noting $600 billion of startup equity is abandoned over a market cycle. He explains how Vested helps solve this problem by providing funding to help employees exercise their expiring stock options, in exchange for exposure to a portion of the now-owned shares. Dave also previews Vestimate, a tool to track the fair-market value of your equity over time that's already reducing abandonment, and shares practical takeaways for employees, advisors, and allocators seeking exposure to venture capital. (0:00) Starts (0:34) Dave Thornton explains Vested (9:35) Vested's selection model, data sources, and proprietary insights (17:22) Vested's investment strategy and funds (21:19) Trends in IPOs (23:13) Venture exposure (26:18) Introducing the Vestimate (31:12) Future goals for Vested (37:38) Final remarks ----- Follow Meb on X, LinkedIn and YouTube For detailed show notes, click here To learn more about our funds and follow us, subscribe to our mailing list or visit us at cambriainvestments.com ----- Follow The Idea Farm: X | LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok ----- Interested in sponsoring the show? Email us at Feedback@TheMebFaberShow.com ----- Past guests include Ed Thorp, Richard Thaler, Jeremy Grantham, Joel Greenblatt, Campbell Harvey, Ivy Zelman, Kathryn Kaminski, Jason Calacanis, Whitney Baker, Aswath Damodaran, Howard Marks, Tom Barton, and many more.  ----- Meb's invested in some awesome startups that have passed along discounts to our listeners. Check them out here!  -----Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into our newest acquisition — Venture on Maryland. Jason and Heather share why this vintage property stood out, the renovation strategy we're implementing, and how the neighborhood's strong fundamentals support our investment. We break down the financials, including our $10.7M purchase price compared to the previous owner's $17M, and discuss how thoughtful upgrades will reposition the property for long-term success. We also zoom out to explore bigger trends in Arizona real estate: why the state continues to attract first-time homebuyers, the shifting dynamics between renting and owning, and how major players like Jordan Peterson and institutional investors are making big bets in the Valley. Heather highlights the personal, boutique-style property management approach that sets Venture Residences apart, including the power of resident referrals and building long-term community ties. Whether you're a current investor or just curious about Arizona's multifamily landscape, this episode offers insights on why location, timing, and a hands-on approach make all the difference.

In this episode, the Neighborhood Ventures team takes you inside our newest multifamily acquisition, Venture on Maryland in Phoenix. We break down how the deal came together, the property's unique value-add potential, and why we believe it's well-positioned in today's market. Tune in to hear about the acquisition process, renovation strategy, projected returns, and what this means for our growing investor community.

Join guest host Dr. Mark Lewis and Meritech Capital Partners cofounder Paul Madera for a talk on Series C/D investing, how VCs judge business models, and where defense tech actually fits. A former Air Force fighter pilot turned investor, Paul helped build one of Silicon Valley's leading late-stage venture firms. In this episode, he dives into the real economics of late-stage venture and what it takes to scale emerging defense technologies. He explains how customer dependence, not pitch decks, drives investment decisions, why AI's compute costs are bending business models, and why there's finally an investable pipeline for dual-use tech after years of scarcity.To receive updates about the conference please join our mailing list here: https://www.emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org/sign-uphttp://emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org https://www.facebook.com/EmergingTechETI https://www.linkedin.com/company/ndia-eti-emerging-technologies-institute https://www.twitter.com/EmergingTechETI

Venture capitalist Katelin Holloway—founding partner at 776— unpacks the new math of sports investing. From incubating Angel City FC and LA Golf Club to why women's sports offer the biggest upside, Holloway explains where value is created (media, sponsors, merch) and how pay equity should be built from first principles. Plus: the origin of “776,” TGL's tech-arena gamble, and the story behind her three citizen's arrests.

Dr. James Spencer welcomes Ryan Skoog—author of Lead with Prayer and president of Venture—for a wide-ranging conversation on prayer, discipleship, and the explosive growth of the global church. Ryan shares powerful stories from persecuted and unreached regions where God’s kingdom is breaking out through church-planting movements, miraculous healings, and courageous local believers. Together, James and Ryan explore why persecution forges unity, how oral cultures disciple through obedience and memorization, and what Western Christians can learn from the prayer lives of global leaders. Ryan also unpacks insights from interviewing over 100 leaders worldwide, showing how prayer is not an afterthought but the engine of fruitful leadership. Learn how friendship with Jesus, crafting a day with God, and investing in prayer can transform your life and ministry. For Lead with Prayer resources visit https://www.leadwithprayer.com. Purchase Lead with Prayer on amazon.com. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel!

► Easyjet CEO launches bitcoin exchange app ► Kazakhstan's moving towards a strategic reserve?► Saylor wasn't expecting to be added to the S&P why did so many people get this wrong?► Gold is getting a new look, and gold bugs might not like it!► Major Hardware wallet Supply Chain Attack, which wallets might be affected? ✔️ Sources: ► https://coinpedia.org/crypto-live-news/easyjet-founder-launches-bitcoin-company/► https://www.ccn.com/news/business/stelios-haji-ioannou-net-worth-explained-easyjet/► https://x.com/bitcoinmagazine/status/1965025611606528183?s=52&t=CKH2brGypO5fEYTgQ-EFhQ► https://cryptobriefing.com/kazakhstan-creates-strategic-bitcoin-reserve/► https://x.com/bitcoinnewscom/status/1965034795882434935?s=52&t=CKH2brGypO5fEYTgQ-EFhQ► https://www.ainvest.com/news/binance-usd-currency-hedge-venezuela-229-inflation-2509/► https://x.com/dgwbirch/status/1964742027804840381► https://x.com/francispouliot_/status/1964742347599798765?s=52&t=CKH2brGypO5fEYTgQ-EFhQ► https://jdstaerk.substack.com/p/we-just-found-malicious-code-in-the► https://x.com/P3b7_/status/1965094840959410230► https://intel.arkm.com/explorer/entity/bb347405-06a1-4268-a901-4b4e17d93bfa► https://x.com/Rhynotic/status/1965109779317359098► https://x.com/btcsessions/status/1965213302612787456?s=52&t=CKH2brGypO5fEYTgQ-EFhQ► https://x.com/thebtcmentor/status/1965240413994074541?s=52&t=CKH2brGypO5fEYTgQ-EFhQTABCONF TICKETS HERE: https://7.tabconf.com/✔️ Check out Our Bitcoin Only Sponsors!► https://archemp.co/Discover the pinnacle of precision engineering. Our very first product, the bitcoin logo wall clock, is meticulously machined in Maine from a solid block of aerospace-grade aluminum, ensuring unparalleled durability and performance. We don't compromise on quality – no castings, just solid, high-grade material. Our state-of-the-art CNC machining center achieves tolerances of 1/1000th of an inch, guaranteeing a perfect fit and finish every time. Invest in a product built to last, with the exacting standards you deserve.► Join Our telegram: https://t.me/PlebUnderGroundChat #Bitcoin #crypto #cryptocurrency #dailybitcoinnews #memecoins The information provided by Pleb Underground ("we," "us," or "our") on Youtube.com (the "Site") our show is for general informational purposes only. All information on the show is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information on the Site. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE SHALL WE HAVE ANY LIABILITY TO YOU FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND INCURRED AS A RESULT OF THE USE OF THE SHOW OR RELIANCE ON ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THE SHOW. YOUR USE OF THE SHOW AND YOUR RELIANCE ON ANY INFORMATION ON THE SHOW IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

This week on Swimming with Allocators, Earnest and Alexa welcome Lara Banks, Managing Director at Makena Capital Management. Lara shares her journey from real assets to venture capital and offers an inside look at Makena's approach to manager selection, portfolio construction, and the evolving role of LPs. The discussion also covers the endowment model, the impact of AI and market shifts on venture and private equity, and the growing importance of grit, adaptability, and unique value for emerging managers. Listeners will gain insights into current challenges like illiquidity, the rise of secondaries, and the need for cross-pollination between venture and PE, as well as practical advice for building durable firms and navigating today's dynamic investment landscape. Don't miss this great conversation!Highlights from this week's conversation include:Lara's Career Path and Origin Story (1:14)Overview of Makena Capital Management (4:04)Changes in Venture Strategy and Market Dynamics (6:06)Investable Building Blocks Explained (9:14)Challenges for Allocators in Today's Market (10:18)Goals for 2025 and Manager Selection (16:02)Advice for Managers Navigating Market Cycles (22:36)What Makes a Great Growth Equity Manager (26:16)Cross-Pollination Between PE and Venture (28:16)Opportunities in Underfunded Founders and Growth Equity (31:34)How Emerging Managers Can Stand Out (34:02)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (36:51)Makena Capital is a ~$22B endowment-style investment firm founded in 2005 by alumni of the Stanford Management Company. Located on Sand Hill Road, Makena partners with world-class managers across asset classes with a legacy of early and ongoing investment in venture capital. Learn more at www.makenacap.com.Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a division of First Citizens Bank, is the bank of the world's most innovative companies and investors. SVB provides commercial and private banking to individuals and companies in the technology, life science and healthcare, private equity, venture capital and premium wine industries. SVB operates in centers of innovation throughout the United States, serving the unique needs of its dynamic clients with deep sector expertise, insights and connections. SVB's parent company, First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCNCA), is a top 20 U.S. financial institution with more than $200 billion in assets. First Citizens Bank, Member FDIC. Learn more at svb.com.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.

In Episode 291 of Where Brains Meet Beauty with Jodi Katz, the spotlight turns to two investors redefining what it means to back beauty and wellness brands: Kara LaForgia, Founder & Managing Partner at Hive Ventures, and Rich Gersten, Co-Founder & General Partner at True Beauty Ventures. Their paths to venture capital could not be more different, yet both reflect the persistence, gut instincts, and passion that this industry demands.Kara's story is one of constant reinvention. A lawyer by training, she started her career as an NFL sports agent, worked with Birdman and Lil Wayne at Cash Money Records, and went on to become the first employee at multiple startups before launching her own consulting business. From there, she began investing off her balance sheet, eventually managing capital for others and institutionalizing her approach under Hive Ventures. She describes herself as hands-on, gritty, and opportunistic, never afraid to step into an unfilled role or claim an open lane. For her, the ideal founder to back is someone who “eats, breathes, sleeps” their company, often an operator with deep experience at an early-stage brand who impresses her enough to think about them long after a meeting ends.Rich's trajectory looks more traditional, but with its own twists. After business school, he entered private equity as a generalist, covering consumer companies across food, supplements, and retail. More than 20 years ago, he stumbled into his first beauty investment, Avalon Natural Products, followed by DDF Skincare. What began as an assignment from the founder of his firm “spend half your time on beauty” became a lifelong focus. Though initially skeptical, Gersten came to see beauty as uniquely resilient and endlessly dynamic. He recalls attending his first Women's Wear Daily CEO Summit as the only private equity investor in the room, a stark contrast to today, where investors and bankers crowd those events alongside brand leaders. Five years ago, he co-founded True Beauty Ventures, a sector-specialized fund that now manages 20 brands across categories, channels, and geographies.Together, their perspectives reveal how beauty investing blends strategy with soul. The capital matters, but so do the founders, the vision, and the consumer connection. Both Hive Ventures and True Beauty Ventures may run lean teams, but they bring something more valuable than scale: deep expertise, empathy for founders, and an insider's feel for where consumer trends are headed. As Gersten puts it, to invest successfully in beauty, you have to love it. Anything less just doesn't stick.

Il s'agit de l'extrait de l'épisode diffusé ce dimanche avec le CEO et fondateur de Hero : Roland Jais-Nielsen***************************Finscale, c'est bien plus qu'un podcast. C'est un écosystème qui connecte les acteurs clés du secteur financier à travers du Networking, du coaching et des partenariats.

This week Pastor Christian wraps up our Family Matters series by talking about one of Venture's core values: Generosity. Generosity isn't about guilt or pressure—it's about hearts transformed by the Holy Spirit. Jesus taught that where we put our treasure, our hearts will follow. In this message we explore how generosity with our time, resources, and lives reveals what we love, reshapes our hearts, and builds God's kingdom for generations to come.

If I knew these three things, I could have avoided so much pain on my journey as a creative business owner. Want my daily email for creatives? https://resilientcreative.com/daily

Never a dull moment in Bitcoin and cryptocurrency.FEATURING:Victoria Jones (https://x.com/satoshis_page)Thomas Hunt (https://twitter.com/MadBitcoins)THIS WEEK:  ———The battle between Bitcoin Core vs Knots is getting uglyhttps://cryptoslate.com/the-battle-between-bitcoin-core-vs-knots-is-getting-ugly/Source: CryptoslateWhat is OP_RETURN—and how does it enable data storage on the Bitcoin network? https://forklog.com/en/what-is-op_return-and-how-does-it-enable-data-storage-on-the-bitcoin-network/Source: ForkLogBitcoin Core Update to Remove Data Limit for OP_RETURN https://forklog.com/en/news/bitcoin-core-update-to-remove-data-limit-for-op_return/Source: ForkLogBitcoin Faithful Bet on Saylor's Strategy Being Added to S&P 500https://finance.yahoo.com/news/bitcoin-faithful-bet-saylor-strategy-143009749.htmlSource: YahooSora Ventures Launches Asia's First Bitcoin Treasury Fund, Plans To Buy $1 Billion In BTC Within 6 Monthshttps://bitcoinmagazine.com/business/sora-ventures-launches-asias-first-bitcoin-treasury-fund-plans-to-buy-1-billion-in-btc-within-6-monthsSource: Bitcoin MagazineTrump family's American Bitcoin makes stock market debuthttps://www.nbcnews.com/business/business-news/trump-american-bitcoin-crypto-venture-raises-conflict-interest-alarms-rcna228837Source: NBC newsTrump and sons' stake in crypto firm worth $5bnhttps://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgjgyyqgvyoSource: BBCWorld Liberty Financial Accuses Exchange Of Token Manipulation, Justin Sun Blacklisted https://bitcoinist.com/world-liberty-financial-accuses-token-manipulation/Source: Bitcoin ListBillionaire Justin Sun begs Trump-backed World Liberty Financial to unfreeze $100 million crypto stash chrome-extension://ecabifbgmdmgdllomnfinbmaellmclnh/data/reader/index.html?id=292347541&url=https%3A%2F%2Ffortune.com%2Fcrypto%2F2025%2F09%2F05%2Fjustin-sun-donald-trump-world-liberty-financial-blacklisted-crypto-address-wlfi%2FTrump-Backed World Liberty Token Falls 50% From Peak—But Early Buyers Are Still in Profit - Decrypthttps://decrypt.co/338102/trump-backed-world-liberty-falls-50-peak-early-buyers-still-profitSource: DecryptWorld Liberty Financial Token Plunges 34% as Community Votes on Burn Planhttps://coinmarketcap.com/academy/article/world-liberty-financial-token-plunges-34percent-as-community-votes-on-burn-planSource: Coin Market Cap________________________________________________________________World Crypto Networkhttps://www.worldcryptonetwork.com/On This Day in World Crypto Network Historyhttps://www.worldcryptonetwork.com/onthisday/---------------------------------------------------------------------------Please Subscribe to our Youtube Channelhttps://m.youtube.com/channel/UCR9gdpWisRwnk_k23GsHf

Venture capital funding into Irish SMEs in the second quarter fell to its lowest level in ten years, according to the Irish Venture Capital Association VenturePulse survey published today in association with William Fry. Funding plummeted to €112.6m, from €494m in the same quarter last year. This is the lowest figure the IVCA has recorded since the second quarter in 2015. As a result, funding in the first half of the year fell by 14% to €645.5m from €752.7m the previous year. "The fall off would have been worse if not for a record first quarter 2025, which saw an increase of over 100% to €532.8m compared to the same period last year," commented Caroline Gaynor, chairperson, Irish Venture Capital Association. She added that the quarterly result was largely explained by an 81% pullback by international investors, which invested €69.5m in the quarter, compared to €375.3m the previous year, a shortfall of over €305m. "This is a timely warning sign for Ireland and highlights the need for us to stand on our own feet in terms of funding and backing for our brightest and best indigenous start-ups, instead of depending on volatile international support," she said. Sarah-Jane Larkin, director general, IVCA, said that bearish international sentiment was reflected in quarter two deal sizes. "There was only one deal (Nomupay) in the 30m+ category, compared to five last year. Funding fell by 88% to €37m from €300.3m." There was also only one deal in the €10 10m+ category (Kota), down from six rounds last year. Funding fell by 87% to €12.4m from over €100m. "There was a falloff in all deal sizes, with the exception of those under €1m," added Sarah-Jane Larkin. "Seed funding, or first rounds by SMEs, fell by over a half to €25.5m." She added, "The IVCA applauds the recent DETE report, which found that 'there is a need for future government intervention to improve the supply of scaling finance'. This new data emphasises the urgency of the situation. "In an increasingly isolationist global economic market, it is more important than ever that we are not dependent on international capital or sentiment and have the capacity to fund our own indigenous winners." The life sciences sector with €255.3m (40%) led the way in funding for the half year, followed by cybersecurity (18%); fintech (14%); software (9%); and AI & machine learning (8%).

Lara Banks of Makena Capital Management joins Nick to discuss How AI Reshapes LP Allocation Strategy, The Convergence of Venture and Buyout, and Permanent Shifts to Liquidity. In this episode we cover: Underwriting New Funds and Long-Term Partnerships Criteria for Investment and Deal Breakers Persistence in Venture and Brand Building CO-Investments and Prepared Minds Alignment and Strategy Drift AI Market and Investment Opportunities Secondaries as a Permanent Shift in Liquidity Value Concentration and Allocation Strategies Guest Links: Lara's LinkedIn Makena's LinkedIn Makena's Website The host of The Full Ratchet is Nick Moran of New Stack Ventures, a venture capital firm committed to investing in founders outside of the Bay Area. Want to keep up to date with The Full Ratchet? Follow us on social. You can learn more about New Stack Ventures by visiting our LinkedIn and Twitter.  

Can a no-code giant reinvent itself in the AI-native era?This week on Grit, Airtable CEO Howie Liu shares what it means to “refound” a company, how speed comes from tearing up old playbooks, and why conversational AI is reshaping his product—and his company.Guest: Howie Liu, Co-Founder & CEO of AirtableChapters:00:00 Intro01:04 First startup & YC04:06 Salesforce acqui-hire07:31 Life-changing exit at 2211:07 Scaling too fast, layoffs14:04 Sparks vs. coasting growth19:33 Two years to launch24:04 Could AI Build It Faster?27:06 Vibe coding & AI startups36:47 Everyone can build software41:08 Refounding Airtable with AI51:04 Sprint vs. marathon58:15 Cap tables & control01:03:29 Always be hiring01:05:00 What grit meansLinks:Connect with HowieXLinkedInConnect with AirtableWebsite: airtable.comXLinkedInConnect with JoubinXLinkedInEmail: grit@kleinerperkins.comLearn more about Kleiner Perkins

Bart sits down with co-founder John Koborowski to rapid-fire update the portfolio—especially assets tied to Neighborhood Ventures' Opportunistic Fund: Asset #1 (acquired Jan ‘25): Occupancy jumped from 72% → 85%+ as tenant quality improved and maintenance was brought in-house; Google reviews surged from ~2.5★ to 5★ under on-site leadership. Venture on 52nd (closed mid-March): Now 94% occupied with 12 new leases and 15 renewals trending to market. Light CapEx (sound-dampening doors on Thomas-facing units, new semi-private patios) is boosting NOI and rental appeal. Venture on 12th Place: Strategic refinance converted $2M debt → $2M equity, locking in fixed financing and positioning a well-renovated, high-occupancy asset for a stronger hold. Venture on Maryland (under contract): 78 units in Central Phoenix at a compelling basis with lender-backed reno dollars; plan is staged interior upgrades and bringing ~$1,100 one-beds toward ~$1,500 market rents. Venture on Country Club: City-driven life-safety upgrades (sprinklers, egress, signage) slated to start September with tenants in place—stabilizing operations in a “buy-don't-sell” market. Clear takeaways: disciplined ops, targeted CapEx, and cycle-aware buying are driving occupancy, NOI, and long-term positioning across the NV portfolio.

S4:E187 David covers The Weekly Insights into Venture and then interviews Tacilent.ai CEO Ron Johnson. Tacilent is an AI-native enterprise risk management platform that turns risk management into continuous resilience with predictive risk intelligence. They came out of Stealth in September of ‘24 and are on track to hit over $1M in ARR by Q1 of ‘26. They have bootstrapped this growth to date and were recognized this year as one Georgia's top 40 most innovative companies. Ron explains the business, their market and what the future looks like for Tacilent. If you're an accredited investor and would like a warm intro to Ron, just reach out to me. (interview recorded 8.26.25)WSJ article “Data Centers That Don't Exist Yet Are Already Haunting the Grid”Follow David and Paul: https://x.com/DGRollingSouth https://x.com/PalmettoAngel Connect On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgrisell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulclarkprivateequity/ We invite your feedback and suggestions at www.ventureinthesouth.com or email david@ventureinthesouth.com. Learn more about RollingSouth at rollingsouth.vc or email david@rollingsouth.vc.

Jenny O’Brien is the founder of Beyond Wellness, a bespoke retreat and concierge service in the Barossa. This episode was part of our podcast trip down in South Australia. Jenny shares her journey from community work to creating Beyond Wellness, the challenges she overcame, and how burnout led her to focus on health and healing. She also talks about the impact of her retreats, the role of nature in wellness, and her vision for helping people reconnect with themselves and find balance. Check out Beyond Wellness's Website here: https://www.beyondwellnessco.com.au/ South Australia. Celebrate the Simple Pleasures. Visit southaustralia.com.au to discover yours. You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Neighborhood Ventures Podcast, the team introduces Venture on Maryland, a 78-unit multifamily property in Central Phoenix acquired at a significant discount. Purchased for $10.7M (down from $17M in 2022), the property will undergo $2M in renovations to modernize units and boost rental demand in one of Phoenix's most desirable neighborhoods. Jason and Heidi walk through how NV sourced the deal, why the seller was motivated, and how strong lender alignment secured favorable loan terms—including 100% of renovation costs financed. They also share the renovation strategy, timeline, and exit plan, while explaining how this acquisition fits into the broader Opportunistic Fund alongside other distressed assets. For investors, it's a behind-the-scenes look at why now is the time to buy in Phoenix's multifamily market—and how NV executes its buy-renovate-stabilize strategy for long-term value.

At EUVC Summit 2025, few sessions packed as much history, humility, and hard-earned wisdom as the conversation with Bernard Dallé and Thomas Kristensen.What began as a one-man show in the early '90s—when venture in Europe was barely a concept—has become one of the most respected platforms in the global industry.“I joined Index before it even existed as a venture firm. It was still Index Securities.”This was more than a talk. It was a journey through time, with insights for every fund manager—new or seasoned—building for the long haul.Before Skype, before unicorns, before European VC had a flag to wave, it was about scraping together conviction and capital.Index Fund I: $17 millionRaised in 1999, following years of groundwork and trialNo real ecosystem, no pattern recognition, and no “easy” capital“You can't raise without a track record. So we used Fund I to create it.”And then came the landmark deal: Skype's acquisition by eBay for $3–4 billion. That one outcome shifted the trajectory of Index—and of European venture as a whole.“After Skype, we could raise with more ease. It gave us credibility.”One of the standout themes was Index's philosophy around team building:“The hires that worked? People we knew—or people who joined slightly below partner level and grew into the role.”In contrast, hiring senior talent cold—especially across geographies—proved far harder. Culture cohesion was key, and misalignment at the top often broke the system.The advice was clear:Grow talent internally when you canOnly bring in outsiders when they're “known entities”Avoid parachuting in partners who haven't lived the firm's values“At some point, having someone senior focused purely on operations becomes essential.”This wasn't about back office—it was about survival.Today's LP demands include:ESG complianceFund reportingExit prepOngoing fundraisingPortfolio support“You need to start thinking about this 10 years in advance.”“It takes 15 years to become somewhat successful in this business. And once you get there—you need to start thinking about who'll take over.”Venture isn't just about spotting founders. It's about building the kind of firm that can back them for decades to come.Bernard and Thomas left the stage with no fluff—just a quiet reminder:Build slowly. Hire wisely. Think in generations.And good luck to all of us doing the same.The Early Days: A Market Without MomentumScaling a Firm: Culture First, Titles LaterOps Matter More Than You ThinkThe Final Lesson: Play the Long Game

This Sunday, we welcomed special guest Paul Hurckman from Venture! He shared about the powerful work happening in some of the world's most unsafe, unreached, and unresourced places and how we can be part of God's global mission through Kingdom Builders.

Send us a textAlex Rodriguez is not only one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball history, 22 seasons, 14 All-Star selections, and three American League MVP award, but also the founder and CEO of A-Rod Corp. Through A-Rod Corp, he has built a diversified platform across three pillars: sports, real estate, and venture capital. His portfolio spans ownership of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx, more than $2 billion invested in multifamily and other real estate, and over 60 venture investments in technology, fitness, media, and consumer brands.In this episode, Rodriguez explains how his interest in investing began at a young age, shaped by both his upbringing and the hard data he studied about professional baseball careers. Growing up in a single-parent household, he watched his mother juggle two jobs to make ends meet, which instilled in him both a fear of financial insecurity and a drive to build long-term stability. He breaks down how he approaches each asset class, from viewing team ownership as a long-duration, low-leverage asset, to focusing on levered cash flows in real estate, to applying his “VCP” filter, Vision, Capital, People, for venture investments. He also shares the story of setting the then-record $252 million contract with the Texas Rangers in 2001 and how Warren Buffett personally insured the final years of that deal.Finally he  talks about the importance of investing early and often, lessons he instilled in his daughters when they were in elementary school, and why it's so important to invest early and often. It's a conversation that connects the mindset of an elite athlete with the discipline of a savvy investor.For a 14 day FREE Trial of Macabacus, click HERE For 20% off Deleteme, use the code TWSS or click the link HERE! Sign up for our LIVE Virtual Bootcamps! 2-Day Financial Modeling Bootcamp Master the technical Excel and accounting skills essential for investment banking, private equity, and fundamental investing. (Learn more HERE) Global Markets & Investing PlaybookA one-day crash course on the financial ecosystem, perfect for anyone seeking a big-picture understanding of how global markets and Wall Street fit together. Our content is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. (Learn more HERE)

Dans cet épisode de Finscale, j'accueille Pierre-Adrien Domon, CEO de Fund Channel, plateforme de distribution B2B de produits d'investissement (fonds, ETF, actifs privés).Nous revenons sur :L'émergence de l'open architecture au début des années 2000 et le rôle des plateformes dans la mutualisation des contrats, des flux et des rétrocessions pour simplifier la vie des banques et distributeurs.La donnée comme nouvel actif stratégique : données de référence (produits, contrats), données transactionnelles (ordres, règlements), et surtout la donnée d'usage, véritable source de market intelligence pour les sociétés de gestion.L'impact des ETF et de la digitalisation : rendre les produits plus accessibles, introduire les fractions de parts et améliorer l'expérience des investisseurs retail grâce aux technologies et à une meilleure UX.L'ouverture aux actifs privés : comment FundChannel travaille à démocratiser l'accès à ces produits pour le retail tout en garantissant transparence et cadre réglementaire.Les grandes innovations récentes : passage du rôle de simple prestataire de back-office à celui de partenaire stratégique, co-construisant avec les banques et asset managers des solutions d'échelle.La tokenisation : une étape clé à venir, notamment pour les fonds monétaires, afin de gagner en efficacité et réduire les coûts, tout en maintenant la confiance dans les tiers financiers.À écouter si vous voulez comprendre comment la donnée, la digitalisation et bientôt la tokenisation transforment la distribution des fonds.***************************Finscale, c'est bien plus qu'un podcast. C'est un écosystème qui connecte les acteurs clés du secteur financier à travers du Networking, du coaching et des partenariats.

In this Multi-family Masterclass episode, host Bart Diehl sits down with Jason Manwaring, CEO of Neighborhood Ventures, to deliver a concise investor update across the portfolio. They cover Venture on 36th Street—fully renovated, now targeting rent growth and moving from bridge to permanent financing; Venture on 17th—stabilized townhome community with strong long-term rent upside as new supply is absorbed; and Venture on Route 66 (Flagstaff)—steady cash flow supported by fixed debt, with options under review, including potential fit for the Neighborhood Ventures REIT. The discussion also spotlights the Arizona Multifamily Opportunistic Fund (recent acquisitions on Coulter and 52nd) and its disciplined, price-sensitive pipeline. Finally, they share leasing progress at Venture on Broadway (Tempe)—anchored by Dunkin, with two additional tenants secured pending TI approvals—against the backdrop of Broadway's rising corridor traffic. Clear takeaways on operations, financing, and timing round out a pragmatic outlook for 2025.

Bart sits down with CEO Jason Manwaring to break down Neighborhood Ventures' latest moves amid a frozen resale market and higher interest rates. They cover why NV launched the Arizona Multifamily Opportunistic Fund, how it scooped up Venture on Colter and Venture on 52nd Street at 30–35% discounts, and why Venture on 12th Place was added after solving a tough refinance gap—now sitting on permanent debt with recent appraisals around ~$9M. They also update the NV REIT (MBE)—currently paying a 5% monthly dividend with stabilized, cash-flowing assets in Phoenix and Flagstaff—and preview new acquisitions in the pipeline. Property spotlights include Venture on 36th Street (fully occupied; moving to permanent financing) and Venture on 17th (stabilized with rents trending up). If you're evaluating where to put capital in today's market, this episode explains NV's buy-right, operate-well, and exit-smart playbook.

In this episode of the Neighborhood Ventures Podcast, Bart Diehl sits down with co-founder John Kobierski to share updates on several of our multifamily assets. We discuss how occupancy has improved at Venture on Coulter, the renovations boosting rents at Venture on 52nd, strategic upgrades underway at Venture on Country Club, and the continued strong performance of Venture on Route 66 in Flagstaff. Together, these updates highlight our focus on disciplined operations, thoughtful renovations, and long-term value creation for our investors.

Albert Azout is the Co-founder and Managing Partner of Level Ventures, combining first-principles thinking with state-of-the-art data science to back and build top seed-stage firms and their breakout companies.Venture investing is hard, and this conversation covers all their research unpacking exactly how to generate alpha.We also talk about how Level picks and backs emerging venture managers to invest in, and Albert gives a demo of the custom internal software they've built.Thank you to Jake Kupperman, Sasha Kaletsky, Nathan Benaich, Amanda Robson, and Dave Fontenot for helping brainstorm topics for the conversation. Special thanks to Ramp for supporting this episode. It's the corporate card and expense management platform used by over 40,000 companies, like Shopify, CBRE and Stripe. Time is money. Save both with Ramp. Get $250 for signing-up here: https://ramp.com/ThePeelTry Hanover Park - the modern, AI-native fund admin https://www.hanoverpark.com/TurnerTimestamps:(5:01) Top 3 forms of alpha in VC(10:11) Other ways to generate alpha(12:47) Avoiding false positives(17:11) Optimal fund size and portfolio construction(22:25) The role of Luck(23:55) Spin-out vs outsider funds(25:43) Level's backchannel reference process(29:29) Finding alpha in Criticality Investing(34:45) Why capital flows drive all returns(43:53) Early, consensus investing has the most alpha(48:46) Networks are more persistent than performance(52:03) The strongest and weakest networks(58:41) Demo of Level's internal software(1:04:48) Building a Fund of Funds around their data(1:10:01) Ideal LP GP relationship(1:12:39) Benchmarks are relative(1:15:39) VC funds using AI(1:17:43) How venture will change in the next 10 yearsReferencedLevel Ventures: https://levelvc.com/Level's Research Papers: https://levelvc.com/research/Follow AlbertLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertazout/Newsletter: https://albertazout.substack.com/ Follow TurnerTwitter: https://twitter.com/TurnerNovakLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/turnernovakSubscribe to my newsletter to get every episode + the transcript in your inbox every week: https://www.thespl.it/

Venture capital visionary Winter Mead joins Sophie to unravel the complex yet rewarding landscape of venture capital and private equity. Discover the powerful insights from industry-specific literature like "Beyond the J Curve" and how these works reshape our comprehension of financial systems. Sophie's conversation with Winter reveals his unique path from a multifamily office to founding Coolwater Capital, and his mission to empower emerging managers in the VC space with a robust three-pronged approach. Winter Mead is the Founder and Managing Member of the investment firm Coolwater Capital, which exclusively focuses on emerging managers and technology investments. Coolwater is an academy for training, building, and scaling emerging managers, a curated community of VC investors and early-stage investment specialists, and an investment firm. Coolwater has helped launch over 250 emerging managers in the last four years, establishing strong ties and trust with these managers, who form the foundation of the Coolwater community. In this episode, you'll hear about: Winter Mead's journey from a multifamily office to founding Coolwater Capital Empowering emerging VC managers with a three-pronged approach: accelerator, back office, and capital support Transitioning from angel investor to fund manager; differences in responsibilities and challenges The role of AI in venture ecosystems and its impact on early-stage investing Importance of personal connections in venture capital despite technological advancements Coolwater Academy's resources for fund managers focusing on fundraising and launching funds Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wintermead/ Website - https://www.wintermead.com/ Coolwater website  https://howtosetupaventurecapitalfund.com/  Alcorn Immigration Law: Subscribe to the monthly Alcorn newsletter Sophie Alcorn Podcast: Episode 16: E-2 Visa for Founders and Employees Episode 19: Australian Visas Including E-3 Episode 20: TN Visas and Status for Canadian and Mexican Citizens Immigration Options for Talent, Investors, and Founders Immigration Law for Tech Startups eBook

Guest: Alex Smereczniak— Serial entrepreneur, former CEO of 2ULaundry & Laundry Lab (over $100M valuation, 118 franchises sold), founder of Franzy (30,000+ monthly users, $3M+ raised to help people buy “cash-flowing” businesses). Early Hustles & First Big Win: Started with classic entrepreneurial pursuits: trading cards, washing cars as a kid, and then running a laundry delivery business (“Wake Wash”) in college, which he bought for $30,000 and sold for nearly $300,000 after systematizing and scaling it. Learned about discounted cash flow, buy/sell agreements, and the real value of recurring cash flow and business structure early on. Scaling, Strategy, and Differentiation: Moved from a student business to working for a Big Four consulting firm (Ernst & Young), but quickly realized he needed to build businesses—not just advise them. Launched 2ULaundry in 2016: delivered laundry/dry cleaning to homes and businesses, quickly scaling through tech and operations, later vertically integrating by building brick-and-mortar laundromats with Electrolux, and ultimately franchising the model for rapid growth. Grew Laundry Lab to 118 franchise awards and 30 locations open as of 2025. Laundromats as a Business Model: Low failure rate due to essential, “recession proof” services—people always need clean clothes—combined with cash-flow and passive income advantages. The “Power Play”: Buy from retiring owners, retool equipment over time, tap into durable local demand. Challenges, Automation & Venture Backing: Success meant more than cash-flow: his companies required operational discipline, vertical integration, and large capital outlays (laundromat builds exceed $1M). Venture capital was attracted by the “Uber for Laundry” home-delivery angle, but Alex's model matured into a blend of tech, local infrastructure, and scalable franchising. Why Franchising Needs Disruption — Enter Franzy: Traditional franchise placement is “Wild West,” with brokers sometimes pocketing up to 60% of franchise fees, influencing which opportunities new entrepreneurs see. Franzy's mission: Take a “Zillow for Franchising” approach—leverage AI for franchise matching (across 4000+ brands), standardized fees, and transparency to empower more everyday people to buy real businesses. Focuses on each buyer's risk profile, lifestyle, and goals; not just “make the most money,” but “fit the best business to the person.” Franchise Trends & Business Models to Watch: Still bullish on laundromats for certain profiles (cash-flow, de-risked, lifestyle), but now sees huge growth in health & wellness, home services, and viral consumer brands (e.g. PopUp Bagels, HRT clinics, anything innovating with AI or “cult” followings). Anticipates continued “displacement” of white-collar jobs by AI; business ownership, franchising, and “betting on yourself” are the safest long-term play for income and autonomy. Connect with Alex & Learn More: https://franzy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/alexfromfranzy/

For Bill McDermott, work has never been just a job.On this Labor Day rerun of Grit, first published Jan 9, 2023, the ServiceNow CEO reflects on what he learned from his earliest jobs and how he carried those lessons from a deli counter in Long Island to the boardroom of an $80B software company.We cover:Why Bill bought a deli when he was in high school — and how he competed against 7-Eleven (04:00)Interviewing at Xerox and wanting it more than anyone else (08:17)Unwavering optimism and being a source of strength for others (12:34)How a love of work has shaped Bill as a person (16:44)Facing challenges and keeping a promise to his father (22:00)Enjoying the present and keeping an eye on the future (30:01)Leaving Xerox for Gartner and learning from a tough experience (33:29)Sloan Kettering and Father Michael Judge (39:22)Following the “original dream” vs. building something new at ServiceNow (44:59)Losing an eye and getting a pep talk from two Medal of Honor winners (51:15)Why Bill started and ended his book with quotes from two Kennedys (01:01:21)Connect with BillXLinkedInConnect with JoubinXLinkedInEmail: grit@kleinerperkins.com Learn more about Kleiner Perkins

Askar Bilisbekov – Chief Executive Officer of Qazaqstan Venture Group Ltd., Member of the Board of Directors 20 years of […]

S4:E186 David covers The Weekly Update in Venture followed by David and Paul's review the 2025 Angel Funders Report from an investor perspective. We talk about what the data in the report means, what is not there, what we would like to see in the future and how this data influences Seed Stage Startup Investing. (interview recorded 8.26.25)The ACA's 2025 Angel Funder's ReportFollow David and Paul: https://x.com/DGRollingSouth https://x.com/PalmettoAngel Connect On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgrisell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulclarkprivateequity/ We invite your feedback and suggestions at www.ventureinthesouth.com or email david@ventureinthesouth.com. Learn more about RollingSouth at rollingsouth.vc or email david@rollingsouth.vc.

The boys taking their 3 year old daughters camping for the first time There's a rat in the house Woody not helping in the conventional sense Unicorn hunting Can we catch a single fish? Camp fire songs See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 268 of The Business Development Podcast, Kelly sits down with Lise Birikundavyi, CFA, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of BKR Capital, Canada's first Black-led, institutionally backed venture capital fund. Lise shares her incredible journey from her roots in Burundi to becoming one of the most influential voices in impact investing and inclusive finance. With a career spanning hedge funds, global impact strategies, and leadership roles across Africa, Asia, and North America, she brings a rare global perspective on how venture capital can fuel innovation and create lasting societal change.This episode dives deep into the world of venture capital — what it is, how it works, and what founders need to know when seeking investment. Lise opens up about the challenges of breaking barriers in finance, the importance of supporting diverse innovators, and why her mission is to redefine the face of success in entrepreneurship. For founders, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about building companies that change the world, this conversation is a masterclass in both capital and courage.Key Takeaways: 1. Venture capital is about fueling innovation and outsized growth, not just providing money.2. Founders must show a clear pathway to $100M revenue for VCs to take interest.3. A strong founding team with resilience and vision is the number one factor VCs invest in.4. Leadership that attracts top talent is critical for scaling early-stage companies.5. Deep understanding of your market and unfair advantages set successful founders apart.6. Venture capital changes the game—bringing not only capital, but governance, networks, and accountability.7. Diversity in venture capital isn't just good ethics, it drives better outcomes and innovation.8. Failure rates remain high even at VC stage, which is why the growth expectations are so demanding.9. Inclusive investment is essential to closing the gap for underrepresented founders.10. Entrepreneurs should always trust their gut, do the work, and stay intentional about their journey.Links referenced in this episode:capitalbd.cabkrcapital.caCompanies mentioned in this episode: BKR Capital Capital Business Development Microsoft The Jacobs Foundation Seron Asset Management Engineers Without Borders Canada Are you a founder looking for a community to help you build? We've got you — not just when it's easy, but especially when it's hard. The Catalyst Club was built for entrepreneurs and leaders who need a safe, private space to share challenges, wins, and get the support that truly moves the needle. With weekly live events, powerful connections, and a community that gets you, this is where you belong.Join us today at

Venture capital has powered companies like Facebook and TikTok—but what if that same urgency fueled America's defense and industrial base? Katherine Boyle, General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz and cofounder of the firm's American Dynamism practice, argues this is the biggest business opportunity of our time.In this conversation from The Shawn Ryan Show, Boyle discusses the rise of defense tech startups, why optimism drives her work, and how a new generation of engineers and founders is rethinking innovation and patriotism in America. Timecodes: 0:00 Introduction 0:41 Patriotism, Optimism, and American Innovation4:27 Startups vs. Legacy Primes in Defense10:08 Venture Capital's Unique Incentives17:21 Katherine's Backstory: Family & Upbringing21:07 The Decline of Community & Family Pillars23:23 Polarization, Religion, and Social Fabric26:16 America's Birth Rate Crisis29:46 Cultural Shifts and the Family Structure42:01 Katherine's Path: Journalism to Venture Capital1:06:06 Breaking into Silicon Valley1:18:06 Investing in Defense: The Anduril Story1:37:37 The American Dynamism Movement2:04:27 Manufacturing, Space, and the Future of Defense2:14:06 Espionage, China, and National Security2:37:38 The Attack on the American Family2:48:29 Cultural Change, Suffering, and Purpose2:55:30 Closing Thoughts Resources: Find Katherine on X: https://x.com/KTmBoyleShawn Ryan Show Links YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkoujZQZatbqy4KGcgjpVxQ/joinListen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shawn-ryan-show/id1492492083Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5eodRZd3qR9VT1ip1wI7xQ?si=7abec4d61c324b24 Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

In this episode of More or Less, Brit Morin and Dave Morin sit down with legendary VC Tony Conrad (True Ventures) for a candid conversation on the state of venture capital, the real impact of AI, the death of social media, and why non-attribution and EQ matter more than ever.Chapters:01:30 – The Power (and Rarity) of Non-Attribution in Venture 04:00 – Building Culture After the Dot-Com Crash 06:00 – Why We Don't Do This for the Money 08:30 – EQ vs IQ: The Human Side of Venture Capital 11:00 – The Wildfire Story: When VCs Show Up as Humans 16:50 – The Best GPs & Firms: Inspiration from Legacy and Newcomers 22:30 – Space Tech Is Real Venture Capital (Not Just AI) 28:10 – Venture Is a Contact Sport: Lessons from Ron Conway 30:40 – AI Hype: Is There Any Money Left for Startups? 40:00 – Manipulation, Social Media, and the Rise of AEO 49:30 – Building Brands in the Age of AI (and Why We Paused Consumer) 55:00 – The Dangers of AI Hype and Overfunding 57:00 – Why Contrarian Investing Can Wait—Focus on AI Now 1:04:00 – Pop Culture Corner: Taylor Swift, Branding, and First Concerts We're also on ↓X: https://twitter.com/moreorlesspodInstagram: https://instagram.com/moreorlessSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/moreorlesspodConnect with us here:1) Sam Lessin: https://x.com/lessin2) Dave Morin: https://x.com/davemorin3) Jessica Lessin: https://x.com/Jessicalessin4) Brit Morin: https://x.com/brit

Send us a textOn today's PoM podcast I sat down with Ryan Skoog, Ryan is Co-Founder and President of VENTURE.ORG, a nonprofit that works in the toughest places of the world, serving war refugees, trafficked people, oppressed children, and the unreached and one of the author's of "Lead With Prayer, The Spiritual Habits of World Changing Leaders." Authors Ryan Skoog, Peter Greer, and Cameron Doolittle spent over one hundred hours interviewing world-changing leaders across six continents, asking a powerful question: What prayer practices are fueling your impact?To learn more visit: https://www.leadwithprayer.com/Support The Show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/110664/subscribe Register for our 2025 Fall Men's Retreat: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/2025-mens-retreatRegister for our next session of Tribe: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/tribe-xviiBuild your own local Tribe with Tribe Builder: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/tribe-builderThis podcast is sponsored by Dark Water Woodwork. Dark Water Woodwork is offering a discount code exclusively for the podcast listeners. Use the discount code "PSALM824" to save 15% off of your next beard oil purchase. https://www.darkwaterkc.comSupport the show