Podcasts about Venture capital

Big ideas, bold flavors, and unfiltered insights—welcome to Austin, where the future of CPG is being written in real time. At Taste Radio's Austin Meetup, we sat down with trailblazers and trendsetters redefining how brands are built and scaled. From Better Sour co-founder Bella Hughes to Torchy's Tacos founder Mike Rypka and Snaxshot's Andrea Hernández, these conversations explore what it really takes to innovate, connect with consumers, and lead with authenticity in a rapidly evolving industry. Show notes: 0:45: Buyers As Far As The Eye Can See. NNE FTW. Boiler Room. Caffeine, Protein & Pole-Caught Tuna. With BevNET Live just two weeks away, excitement is building as Casey's joins a strong lineup of participating retailers, including Stop & Shop, Whole Foods Market, Circle K, H-E-B, The Goods Mart, and Top Ten Liquors. John and Ray recap the recent Naturally New England Naturally Rising event, which spotlighted standout emerging brands, including Singing Pastures and Farmer Foodie. Mike and John revisit their tour of Athletic Brewing's HQ in Milford, CT, before the hosts riffed on consumer interest in dual-functionality products and a canned tuna brand grounded in sourcing transparency. 19:23: Interviews from Taste Radio's Austin Meetup – Mike Rypka, the visionary founder of Torchy's Tacos, shared his journey from launching a food trailer to building a nationally recognized franchise. Steven Santangelo of Matriarch Wealth Management discussed how his firm helps CPG founders navigate the complexities of financial planning, particularly during critical growth and exit stages. Bella Hughes, co-founder of Better Sour, reflected on building a culturally inspired candy brand and the challenges of innovation in a legacy category. Andrea Hernández, the sharp mind behind Snaxshot, delivered an unfiltered perspective on food and beverage trends, highlighting the importance of authenticity and emotional resonance in brand storytelling. And Michelle Breyer, CMO of the Texas-based accelerator SKU, shed light on how the organization nurtures early-stage consumer brands, emphasizing the pivotal role of founder mindset and market fit in driving long-term success. Brands in this episode: Better Sour, Torchy's Tacos, Farmer Foodie, Monsoon Kitchens, Inc., Granny Squibb's, TITIN, Fancypants Baking Co., Singing Pastures, Athletic Brewing, Lucky Saint, 5-hour Energy, Ascent, Pole & Line, Fly By Jing, Siete, Wildwonder, Bachan's, Daily Crunch, Leisure Hydration, BodyArmor, Vitaminwater, NoBull

On this episode of That Entrepreneur Show, we welcome back the powerhouse and mentor-in-residence at Duke University—Robbie Hardy. With 25 years in corporate leadership and over 30 years as a mentor, Robbie shares her journey from boardrooms to building a mission around empowering women founders and angel investors.In this impactful conversation, Robbie dives into:The lessons from launching her own software company after leaving corporateHer work in angel investing and the creation of the Mentor Capital SeriesHow she's helping more women claim their place in investing and leadershipRed flags female founders should watch for when fundraisingThe hidden cost of flattery and how to avoid time-sinks disguised as opportunityThis episode is a masterclass in purpose-driven entrepreneurship and the power of mentorship. If you're a woman navigating the startup or investment world—or someone eager to support them—this one's for you.

Jonathan Godwin is co-founder and CEO of Orbital Materials, an AI-first materials-engineering start-up. The company open-sourced Orb, a state-of-the-art simulation model, and now designs bespoke porous materials—its first aimed at cooling data-centres while capturing CO₂ or water. Jonathan shares how his DeepMind background shaped Orbital's “design-before-experiment” approach, why the team chose data-center sustainability as a beachhead market, and what it takes to build a vertically integrated, AI-native industrial company. The conversation explores the future of faster, cheaper R&D, the role of advanced materials in decarbonization, and the leap from software to physical products.In this episode, we cover: [02:12] Johnny's path from DeepMind to materials start-up[04:02] Trial-and-error vs AI-driven design shift[06:40] University/industry dynamics in materials R&D[10:17] Generative agent plus simulation for rapid discovery[13:01] Mitigating hallucinations with virtual experiments[18:18] Choosing a “hero” product and vertical integration[25:43] Dual-use chiller for cooling and CO₂ or water capture[32:26] Partnering on manufacturing to stay asset-light[35:58] Building an AI-native industrial giant of the future[36:51]: Orbital's investorsEpisode recorded on April 30, 2025 (Published on May 27, 2025) Enjoyed this episode? Please leave us a review! Share feedback or suggest future topics and guests at info@mcj.vc.Connect with MCJ:Cody Simms on LinkedInVisit mcj.vcSubscribe to the MCJ Newsletter*Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant

In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we dive deep into alternative investments—exploring everything from private equity and private debt to real estate, commodities, crypto, and hedge funds. Nate Condon and Clint Walkner from Walkner Condon Financial Advisors explain how access to these investment options has evolved and what individual investors should know before diving in.Whether you're a high-net-worth investor or someone exploring portfolio diversification beyond stocks and bonds, this episode delivers clear explanations and real-world examples to help you understand risks, rewards, and opportunities in today's alternatives landscape.

Chris Urmson has spent the last 20 years pushing the limits of autonomous driving—first at Carnegie Mellon's DARPA Grand Challenge team, then as co-founder of Google's self-driving car project, now Waymo.On this week's episode, the Aurora CEO retraces that journey—from building robot cars in the desert to leading a public company pioneering driverless trucking.He shares why autonomy was always a matter of when, not if, how he handled a high-profile departure from Waymo, and what it takes to build at the intersection of deep tech, safety, and infrastructure.Now eight years into Aurora, Urmson says the future he's been chasing is finally within reach.Guest: Chris Urmson, Co-Founder & CEO of AuroraChapters: 00:00 Trailer00:43 Introduction01:59 FSD: are we there? 14:31 The competition, a million dollar check from LA to LV22:50 Dream like an amateur, execute like a pro32:30 Operate with integrity42:49 The future is here, unevenly distributed49:36 Underestimated decisions, minimizing regrets1:03:55 Retaining value1:16:45 Integrating self-driving1:28:20 Lifer1:29:25 Who Aurora is hiring1:29:53 What “grit” means to Chris1:30:15 OutroMentioned in this episode: Waymo, Google, Rivian, Dmitri Dolgov, Uber, Tesla, The DARPA Grand Challenge, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, United States Department of Defense, Carnegie Mellon University, Stanford University, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Hirschbach, Schneider Electric, Larry Page, Sergey Brin, Sebastian Thrun, Batman, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Anthony Levandowski, Donald Trump, Apple iPhone, Airbnb, Blackmore, Stripe, Titan, Ford, Volkswagen, RJ Scaringe, Peterbilt Motors Company, The Volvo Group, Continental AG, Dara KhosrowshahiLinks:Connect with Chris UrmsonXLinkedInConnect with JoubinXLinkedInEmail: grit@kleinerperkins.com Learn more about Kleiner Perkins

Dumpling Daughter isn't just a food brand. It's founder Nadia Liu Spellman's heartfelt homage to family, culture and comfort. Her mission is simple but powerful: to make high-quality, restaurant-style comfort food accessible at home, while honoring the deep emotional ties that food can hold. Launched in 2014. Dumpling Daughter began as a beloved local restaurant in the Boston area and has since expanded into a rapidly growing CPG brand featuring frozen dumplings, bao buns, and sauces that celebrate generational flavors.   In this episode, Nadia takes us on a journey from her Boston roots and business school days at Babson College to the high-pressure world of Wall Street — and ultimately, back to her cultural heritage in the kitchen.  Along the way, Nadia opens up about honoring her family's culinary legacy — including her mother's legendary fine-dining restaurant, Sally Ling's — and what it takes to build a brand defined by authenticity, innovation, and uncompromising quality. From the challenges of food manufacturing to the nuances of flavor storytelling, she gives us an inside look at redefining "premium" in the world of ready-to-cook cuisine. Show notes: 0:25: Nadia Liu Spellman, Founder & CEO, Dumpling Daughter – Nadia fondly reflects on her childhood spent in the heart of her parents' lively Chinese restaurant, where her passion for food first took root. From preparing family dinners as a tween to eventually leaving behind a corporate career, she shares what inspired her leap into entrepreneurship. The Covid-19 pandemic became a turning point, offering Dumpling Daughter the chance to grow into a CPG brand that weaves heritage and hospitality into every bite. Nadia discusses her love for being the face of the brand—appearing in behind-the-scenes stories on Instagram—and why she sees competition as a motivator, not a threat. With a brand flywheel that connects direct-to-consumer, retail, and restaurant channels, she talks about why she's thinking big, while staying grounded in her mission: to share food that tastes like home. Brands in this episode: Dumpling Daughter

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with entrepreneur, investor, and Evolution Co-Founder Alex Chompff about redefining venture capital through ethics, inclusion, and long-term impact. From his early days in the military to his time at Kleiner Perkins during the dot-com boom, Alex shares the lessons that shaped his values as a founder and investor. Now at the helm of Evolution Ventures, he explains how ethical venture capitalism can drive regional growth and build meaningful partnerships that go beyond profit. We also explore how personal values like fatherhood and service influence his leadership style, and how initiatives like the Minerva Fund are creating a more inclusive startup ecosystem.

Episode Description: In this insightful episode, we sit down with Mohamed Ahmed—engineer-turned-founder, investor, and author—to explore the real mechanics of venture capital, startup life, and personal growth. Mo brings his unique perspective from launching a successful startup, exiting, and now advising others through the VC lens. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or someone navigating your own career transition, this episode is filled with real talk, valuable frameworks, and unfiltered stories you won't want to miss. What We Cover: Mo's career journey: From big tech to startup founder to venture capitalist The truth about how VC really works behind the scenes How VCs and LPs think—and what most founders get wrong Media myths: What's often misunderstood about startups and founders Balancing growth with personal life: Tips for maintaining perspective Mental wellness and leadership—why it matters more than ever Making the leap from employee to entrepreneur: Key mindset shifts The challenge of engineers becoming business leaders The emotional journey of selling your company—and what happens next Lessons learned after an exit: What no one tells you Future trends in entrepreneurship and venture capital The core message behind Mo's book and how it can help you Key Takeaway: Success in entrepreneurship isn't just about raising capital or scaling fast—it's about aligning purpose, people, and personal growth. Connect with Mohamed Ahmed:

Michelle Razavi, the co-founder of Elavi, pulls back the curtain on how the brand landed a $1 million order from Costco just four months after the debut of its protein brownies. The hosts also discuss Chobani's purchase of Daily Harvest and Via Verde Valle's acquisition of A Dozen Cousins and how the latter may reflect a new paradigm in which founders favor strategic exits over prolonged fundraising Show notes: 0:45: Pass The Brownies. Sample Your Wares. Fundraise Or Sell? Justin Time. Phony And Fantastic. – The hosts munch on Elavi's protein brownies and heap praise on the brand's co-founders Michelle Razavi and Nikki Elliot. They also highlight sampling opportunities and retailer buyer access at BevNET Live Summer 2025, before diving into recent industry M&A activity, including Chobani's acquisition of Daily Harvest and Verde Valley's acquisition of A Dozen Cousins. They discuss how these moves reflect shifting strategies in CPG, where founders increasingly favor strategic exits over prolonged fundraising. The team also reviews a variety of new products, including Justin's new better-for-you candy bars, Campari's non-alcoholic spritz Crodino, and the standout Phony White Negroni by St. Agrestis. Other notable mentions include energy-infused gum, crypto-themed sparkling water, and functional tea and coffee drinks. 29:09: Interview: Michelle Razavi, Co-Founder, Elavi – Michelle talks about how Elavi spotted whitespace in the protein snack category, the brand's journey to retail readiness, including key learnings from Costco roadshows, and how strategic packaging design and in-store execution have fueled velocity at scale. She also discusses buyer relationships, proving value as an emerging brand, and the internal resilience required to lead a mission-driven company through rapid iteration and distribution. Brands in this episode: Elavi, Olipop, Chobani, Polar, Daily Harvest, A Dozen Cousins, Verde Valle, Snickers, Gigantic Candy, Harken Sweets, Justin's, Campari, Aperol, Crodino, Crush, St. Agrestis, Instant Energy Gum, Rekt, Fktea, Fuzzee Coffee, RXBAR, Caulipower

Bienvenue dans l'AI Gold Rush.Mais derrière l'euphorie, les exits se font rares, les valorisations explosent… et de plus en plus d'investisseurs tournent le dos au Venture Capital.Dans cet épisode, on vous raconte l'envers du décor.

In this episode, I sit down with longtime industry leader and visionary Phil Venables to discuss the evolution of cybersecurity leadership, including Phil's own journey from CISO to Venture Capitalist. We chatted about: A recent interview Phil gave about CISOs transforming into business-critical digital risk leaders and some of the key themes and areas CISOs need to focus on the most when making that transition Some of the key attributes CISOs need to be the most effective in terms of technical, soft skills, financial acumen, and more, leaning on Phil's 30 years of experience in the field and as a multiple-time CISO Phil's transition to Venture Capital with Ballistic Ventures and what drew him to this space from being a security practitioner Some of the product areas and categories Phil is most excited about from an investment perspectiveThe double-edged sword is AI, which is used for security and needs security. Phil's past five years blogging and sharing his practical, hard-earned wisdom at www.philvenables.com, and how that has helped him organize his thinking and contribute to the community.Some specific tactics and strategies Phil finds the most valuable when it comes to maintaining deep domain expertise, but also broader strategic skillsets, and the importance of being in the right environment around the right people to learn and grow

After discovering women-led farms were under-represented in the olive oil industry, Sarah Vachon launched Citizens of Soil to support small, family farms and deliver refillable, premium oils. Her journey from side hustle to premium grocers shows how curiosity and purpose can power a standout brand.For more info on Citizens of Soil and show notes click here. Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

What do you do after turning down a $600M offer—and watching it disappear days later? In this episode, venture capitalist and serial entrepreneur Jeremy Delk joins Dan Rochon to talk about pattern recognition, how to spot untapped markets, and the gritty truth behind high-stakes decisions. From losing $2M in four days as a college student to building multi-9-figure businesses, Jeremy shares powerful lessons on risk, leadership, and why real success comes from knowing who you are—not just what you've built.What you'll learn on this episodehe power of pattern recognition over pure hustle when spotting untapped marketsWhy real investors don't care about competition—they obsess over the customer experienceThe biggest mistake Jeremy ever made (hint: he said no to $600M) and how it led to his next big winWhy Jeremy only invests in 1 out of every 100 pitches—and what he looks for in a founderThe mindset shift every entrepreneur must make after hitting rock bottomThe spiritual crisis of success—and how to reconnect with purpose when the scoreboard is no longer enoughWhat Jeremy would tell his 25-year-old self: “Just take one more step”At the heart of this conversation is a simple truth: real business success comes from clearly communicating value and solving real problems. If you're working to sharpen that clarity in your own business, Dan's upcoming book Teach to Sell offers a practical framework to help you attract clients and opportunities by leading with what you know.

The latest installment of Elevator Talk features leaders from Hip Pop, Pari, Aqua Boost, Pablo's Mate, Zenjoy. Watch founders and CEOs introduce their brands and provide a recap of recent news and updates. This week's special co-host is Adam Louras, a principal with Mercenary, who shared his thoughts, questions and feedback with the participants. He is joined by Ray Latif, the editor and producer of the Taste Radio podcast.

Today, we're speaking with Sophie Purdom, Managing Partner of Planeteer Capital. After co-creating CTVC with Kim Zou, the climate deals and deep-dives newsletter that has become canon in climate, with 75k+ readers, Sophie announced Planeteer Capital. (We discussed on the pod) They are going full speed with their investing thesis, investing in companies at the incorporation stage. Something they have been able to do well, given the history and network that Sophie has. Aside from teasing the future of Planeteer and discussing their unique advantage, Sophie gave us some insights on where the market is now. One thing that surprised us is how, despite all the negative news, more deals are being done year over year than in years past. Sophie shares the 4 types of climate tech founders, what they look for picking the right team, and core things to get right when navigating the climate capital stack. This interview is one we've been chasing down for some time, so we're glad to finally make it. We hope you enjoy the show! Fill out our listener survey. If you want to support our work, upgrade to paid today!Topics **2:08 The Current State of Climate Tech**5:31 Long-Term Impact of the Climate Boom**8:44 [Check out ErthTech Talent for your Hiring Needs]**9:28 Identifying Long-Term & Durable Trends**13:04 Tracking High-Potential Niche Markets**17:57 How Her View of Venture Investing Has Changed **20:20 Where Planeteer Investments**23:15 The Value Planeteer Adds**24:30 The Role CTVC Played In Her Ability To Run Planeteer Well**28:00 Investing at Incorporation**32:15 How They Support Founders & Incentive Alignment**35:05 What to Know When Partnering with Incumbents**39:29 Will Climate Disruptors Scale?**43:10 The Future Vision of Planeteer CapitalLinks**Sophie Purdom | Planeteer Capital**Discussing the Planeteer Fund Announcement**Somil on LinkedIn | Support the showIf you're gonna change the world, you're gonna need a world-class team. Partner with ErthTech Talent to help you do that, for less. 70+ Placements 5+ Years (exclusively in CleanTech) The Lowest Fees in the Market (12-15% of first-year salary) 90-day placement guarantee It's really hard to say no to that. Wait?! -- The best service is also the cheapest? Seems too good to be true, but it's the entire reason we started this company. We believe that Climate entrepreneurs are doing important work, and there should be a firm to help them find the best talent, without it breaking the bank. Reach out today for a free assessment of your hiring process. hello@erthtechtalent.com

What happens when the people deciding which startups get funded rethink the rules of who belongs at the table? In this episode, host Marcia welcomes Kate McAndrew, co-founder of the Baukunst fund, who shares her journey from arts student to leading pre-seed venture capitalist with a fresh perspective on building companies.Kate discusses how she's redefining the early stage investment process—focusing on community, creativity, and making capital accessible for underrepresented founders. She also weighs in on the practical realities of AI, groundbreaking fund models, and the powerful role of networks in startup success.If you're curious about how the next generation of startups are being launched, and who's working to open up the investing world for new voices, this conversation is essential listening. To get the latest from Kate McAndrew, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateprestonmcandrew/ https://baukunst.co/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

What if venture capital wasn't just about profit, but about people? Does everyone need to raise Venture Capital? Wouldn't you love to invest with purpose? In this episode, Rob sits down with his friend Matt Schaar of Accion Venture Lab, to unpack how investing in underserved communities, around the world, is reshaping the future of finance and how the Accion Group has been leading the way for more than 60 years. From empowering women entrepreneurs to bringing financial tools to the world's overlooked populations, Matt shares his unexpected journey from aerospace to impact investing—and why understanding real human stories is the key to driving real change.Feel free to follow and engage with MATT here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattschaarInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/_schaar_Website: https://www.accion.orgWe're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.¡Cheers y gracias!,Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.

From accelerators to corporate venture capital, most startup support structures fail to deliver. Investor and entrepreneur Andrew Ackerman explains why — and what founders and corporates should do instead. With over 70 investments and hundreds of founders mentored, Andrew brings rare perspective from both sides of the table. Andrew is a serial entrepreneur who has founded two companies, led an accelerator, and now advises startups, VCs and corporates. He's also the author of The Entrepreneur's Odyssey — a novel-style guide to what startup life really feels like. You will learn: Why most accelerators fail: Discover how many support programs offer flashy promises without delivering tangible outcomes like revenue or pilot deals. Rethinking venture capital: Understand why fundraising is often pursued for validation rather than strategic fit — and why most startups don't necessarily need VC money. Corporate innovation pitfalls: Learn how misaligned incentives and internal politics transform innovation programs into mere theatre rather than engines of growth. The value of tailored support: Find out how startups can benefit from support structures designed as platforms that evolve with their specific stage and needs. What to do instead: Get practical insights on structuring your support programs, whether you're a founder, a corporate team, or an investor.   Chapters 00:00 The Illusion of Tech Startups 02:43 Understanding Startup Support Systems 06:48 Challenges in Corporate Innovation 10:05 The Value of Accelerators 16:58 The Glamour of Fundraising 22:12 The Reality of Startup Life   FREE COURSE: 5 Tech Concepts Every Business Leader Needs To Know   Growth Through Innovation If your organisation wants to drive revenue through innovation, book a call with us here. Our workshops and innovation strategies have helped Constellation Brands, the Royal Bank of Canada and Oxford University.  --- For the full transcript, go to https://www.techfornontechies.co/blog/What-most-startup-support-gets-wrong-and-how-to-fix-It

How did a 300-pound tech executive become the founder of a $20 billion biohacking industry? In this Habits and Hustle episode, Dave Asprey reveals his unconventional journey, sharing his marketing philosophy: "I do not sell. I teach."  We discuss how he bootstrapped Bulletproof to $27 million before raising capital, the venture capital challenges that led to losing control of his company, and why he believes making products that genuinely work is his true marketing secret. We also dive into his experience creating the Bulletproof Coffee phenomenon and how his desperate search to heal his own chronic health issues led to revolutionary discoveries. Dave Asprey is the founder of nine companies, including Bulletproof, Danger Coffee, TrueDark, and Upgrade Labs. He's authored bestselling books including "The Bulletproof Diet," "Head Strong," and his newest release, "Heavily Meditated." Dave is credited with creating three unique billion-dollar markets: MCT Oil, Collagen Protein, and Functional Coffee.  What We Discuss:  (01:00) Biohacking and Marketing Secrets (10:10) Uncovering the Quiet Desperation (13:19) Entrepreneur's Journey to Success (19:32) Venture Capital, Biohacking, and Longevity (30:37) Sexual Health and Biohacking Insights (42:18) Exercise, Recovery, and Hormone Optimization (49:50) Optimizing Testosterone and Peptide Use …and more! Thank you to our sponsors: Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers.  Bio.me: Link to daily prebiotic fiber here, code Jennifer20 for 20% off.  Momentous: Shop this link and use code Jen for 20% off David: Buy 4, get the 5th free at davidprotein.com/habitsandhustle.   Find more from Jen:  Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen   Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagement Find more from Dave Aspry: Website: https://daveasprey.com/  X: https://www.instagram.com/dave.asprey/?hl=en  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DaveAspreyBPR 

How do you build a globally scaled seafood company rooted in ancient Japanese techniques, humane animal treatment, and radical transparency – all before the age of 26? Meet Saif Khawaja, the founder and CEO of Seremoni, a startup that's reinventing the seafood industry from the ground up.  Launched in 2024, Seremoni is a vertically integrated company setting a new benchmark for quality and ethics in seafood by merging time-honored Japanese craft with cutting-edge technology. To bring his vision to life, Saif assembled a dream team: engineers from SpaceX, veterans from premium seafood brands, and small-scale fishermen from across the globe.  His mission? To build a new kind of supply chain – one powered by empathy, precision engineering, and economic equity – and to make Michelin-quality seafood accessible to everyone. In this episode, Saif shares how a Wharton thesis and a philosophical reckoning ignited a radical idea. He walks us through the early days of grit and experimentation, the challenges of leading teams twice his age, and why he believes world-changing companies are often born from deep moral conviction, not spreadsheets. Show notes: 0:25: Saif Khawaja, Founder & CEO, Seremoni – Saif opens up about how reading Peter Singer's essay “If Fish Could Scream” profoundly impacted him and inspired the development of Seremoni and how his hands-on experience as a commercial fisherman exposed him to artisanal methods and the biology of how stress affects flavor and decomposition in fish. He talks about how the company's tools and robotics scale ikejime techniques in the U.S., pursuing vertical integration to ensure quality and pay fishermen more fairly, and how he convinced investors, chefs and retailers to buy into his vision. Saif also discusses his management of a growing team of over 30 people, and how he is building a values-driven movement that is guided by a strong moral compass. Brands in this episode: Seremoni, Ōra, Oishii

John Chambers led Cisco through the rise of the internet—transforming it into the world's most valuable company at its peak.On this week's Grit, the former Cisco CEO unpacks how he scaled the business from $70M to $50B+, pioneered M&A as a growth strategy with 180 acquisitions, and built what many called the best sales force in tech.Now leading his own venture firm, Chambers shares how he's backing the next generation of AI-native startups.Guest: John T. Chambers, Former Cisco Executive Chairman & CEO, JC2 Ventures Founder & CEOChapters: 00:00 Trailer00:45 Introduction01:45 Track record, relationships, trust13:21 Acquisitions every year17:32 Product-focused24:40 Family, dyslexia, and without shame30:46 Wang Laboratories35:59 Ready being CEO40:17 Reinventing your business50:08 Numbers don't lie54:09 Sales calls and making mistakes56:20 Adapting leadership style1:06:32 Best leadership year ever1:13:35 A busy, exhausting schedule1:22:07 Candid with me1:25:21 What “grit” means to John1:26:43 OutroMentioned in this episode: John Doerr, OpenAI, Wang Laboratories, IBM, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Apple Inc., Meta Platforms, FMC Corporation, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., John Mortgage, Don Valentine, Sequoia Capital, Alcatel Mobile, Lucent Technologies, Inc., Verizon Communications Inc., AT&T Inc., Rick Justice, Pankage Patel, Larry Carter, CNBC, Jim Cramer, George Kurtz, CrowdStrike, Randy Pond, Rebecca Jacoby, Mel SelcherLinks:Connect with JohnXLinkedInConnect with JoubinXLinkedInEmail: grit@kleinerperkins.comLearn more about Kleiner Perkins

In this episode of Demo Day, we sit down with Minnie Ingersoll, Partner at TenOneTen Ventures and host of the LA Venture Podcast, for an insider look at how venture capital is evolving in 2024.Minnie drops exclusive insights on a growing trend: LP sharing - a powerful but rarely discussed tactic that's helping up-and-coming VCs fundraise faster and smarter. If you're a VC, founder, or aspiring fund manager, this episode is packed with tactical gems.We also talk about:How new VCs can build deal flow from scratchThe role of media and personal brand in fundraisingThe biggest red flags Minnie looks for in foundersHer honest take on remote vs in-person startup cultureWhere AI is actually making a difference in VC workflowsHow to get in the room where it happens - and stay thereWhether you're raising your first fund or trying to land your next round, Minnie's advice will change the way you think about investing, networking, and storytelling.Listen to the full episode and don't forget to subscribe for more interviews with top VCs and startup operators.#VCInsights #FundraisingTips #MinnieIngersoll #TenOneTen #StartupAdvice #DemoDayPodcast #EarlyStageInvesting #LPSharing #AIVC #VentureCapital #Founders #DealFlow #PersonalBrand #SeedInvesting #PitchTips #TechStartups #LAStartups

Today on our show:Amazon Announces New AI Tool to Enhance Product ListingsVenture Capital Dominated by AI Right NowFedEx and Amazon Strike Up a PartnershipKlaviyo Reports Q1 2025 Earnings- and finally, The Investor Minute which contains 5 items this week from the world of venture capital, acquisitions, and IPOs.Today's episode is sponsored by Mirakl.https://www.rmwcommerce.com/ecommerce-podcast-watsonweekly

In this episode, Ben Bajarin and Jay Goldberg discuss the current state of the semiconductor industry, focusing on tariffs, AI budgets, and advancements in technology. They explore the implications of recent tariff discussions, the impact on supply chains, and the ongoing investment in AI infrastructure, particularly in Saudi Arabia. The conversation also highlights the evolution of AI factories and the need for localized infrastructure to meet national security and data sovereignty concerns.

 Lex chats with Avlok Kohli - the CEO of AngelList, about the company's significant evolution. Initially a platform for startups to connect with venture capitalists, AngelList has transformed into a comprehensive fintech entity encompassing private equity and cryptocurrency. Avlok discusses the strategic pivots, including the introduction of syndicates and rolling funds, that have redefined the company's business model. The episode also explores the broader implications of crowdfunding and the unique challenges in the crypto space, offering a deep dive into AngelList's impact on the financial services industry. Notable discussion points: 1. AngelList's Second Founding: Reinvention as a Fintech Platform: Since 2019, AngelList has transformed from a mixed-use startup platform into a focused fintech infrastructure business for fund managers. Avlok Kohli spun out the syndicates arm and built a scalable product offering that includes SPVs, venture funds, and innovative structures like Rolling Funds and Roll Up Vehicles. This pivot catalyzed explosive growth—from ~$1B in AUM in 2019 to $171B+ today—by enabling fund creation and deployment at scale. 2. Product Innovation as a Strategic Advantage: Instead of competing with well-capitalized incumbents like Carta on sales and marketing, AngelList focused on building category-defining products. The launch of Rolling Funds—allowing fund managers to raise publicly and continuously—was a breakout moment. It created viral word-of-mouth growth and redefined how emerging fund managers could access capital, illustrating the principle: “You can't win by playing someone else's game.” 3. AI and the Future of Private Markets Infrastructure: AngelList is embedding AI across three strategic layers: (1) Back-office automation, replacing manual workflows, (2) Customer service enhancement, enabling agents to respond to LPs with real-time data, and (3) Data reasoning products, like Fin, which analyzes anonymized fund and secondary data to deliver actionable private market insightsThis positions AngelList not only as an admin platform but as a data intelligence layer over the private capital markets. MENTIONED IN THE CONVERSATION Topics: Fintech, Web3, Venture, VC, Venture capital, private markets, fundraising, crowdfunding, crypto, web3, AI, Angellist, Coinlist, Carta, Gumroad ABOUT THE FINTECH BLUEPRINT 

Send us a textIn this episode, industry experts discuss the evolving landscape of technology and its impact on investment strategies. Key topics include the role of AI in driving innovation, the potential for consolidation in med tech and healthcare, and the increasing importance of operational due diligence in private equity. Panelists share their experiences and insights on how technology has streamlined due diligence processes, enhanced transparency, and shaped decision-making in their investments. They also offer valuable advice on how family offices and private investors can approach M&A, divesting strategies, and niche investing, while emphasizing the importance of focusing on a clear strategy and avoiding distractions from emerging trends.

Is the plant-based meat boom going bust? Despite early excitement and big investments, some brands are in the midst of turbulent times and an uncertain future. The hosts weigh in. Plus, Babak Bina, co-founder of BCB3 Hospitality Group, shares how a deep commitment to guest experience and a love for cultural cuisine helped him develop some of the city's most acclaimed restaurants. Show notes: 0:45: Head South. Point (Coffee) Break. Big Names, Live. A Beyond Meati Problem. Dink-Tinis & More. –  The hosts recap Taste Radio's vibrant Austin meetup and share red hot news in the business of RTD coffee. They also highlight recently announced founders and operators that will be speaking at BevNET Live Summer 2025, including Kurt Seidensticker of Vital Proteins and Melvin Landis of Olipop. The hosts riff on the stunning downfall of plant-based meat company Meati as well as another poor quarter for Beyond and analyze the broader implications for the alt-meat space. Ray gets everyone's attention with a collaboration between The Botanist Gin and Prince, which have teamed up to serve “pickleball cocktails,” before John and Mike break out lemonade-flavored potato chips and a goat milk “lamb skewer” chocolate bar. Jacqui chats about an avocado-based tea, and Ray showcases new meat sticks from The New Primal and Archer.  29:09: Babak Bina, Co-Founder, BCB3 Hospitality Group – A towering presence in Boston's culinary scene for nearly four decades, Babak is a renowned restaurateur whose influence stretches far beyond the dining room. Known for his unwavering focus on hospitality and a bold commitment to innovative, globally inspired cuisine, he has helped shape the city's food culture in lasting ways. In this episode, Babak shares insights into how he educates diners without alienating them, why pushing a city's culinary boundaries matters, and what it takes to craft experiences that go well beyond just great food. He also discusses his philosophy of leading by example – whether it's mopping the floor or bussing a table – and how culture starts at the top. Brands in this episode: Wundereggs, Super Coffee, Afia, Better Sour, Nebula Snacks, NUFS, Jolene, Vital Proteins, Olipop, Polar, Meati, Beyond, Impossible, The Botanist, Essentia, Utz, Alex's Lemonade Stand, New Primal, Archer, Kesssho, Avsome, HOP WTR

Lina Khan recently concluded her term as one of the Biden administration's most controversial leaders. Her tenure as chair of the Federal Trade Commission raised the profile of the relatively obscure antitrust agency charged with protecting competition. Her anti-monopoly outlook and more aggressive enforcement strategies, particularly toward Big Tech market power and protecting workers, earned the ire of the business community and the dedicated vitriol of the Wall Street Journal editorial board.Khan began her term as the youngest-ever appointee of the FTC. She initially rose to prominence for her 2017 Yale Law Journal article, “Amazon's Antitrust Paradox,” which went viral among the antitrust community for its argument that scholars and regulators must look beyond prices to understand what constitutes a harm from a lack of competition, especially in today's digital economy where many services are nominally provided for free to consumers. Fresh out of law school, Khan appeared on a Capitalisn't episode in our first season and wrote for our sister publication at the Stigler Center, ProMarket, as far back as 2018. She also delivered two keynote addresses at the Stigler Center's annual Antitrust and Competition Conferences while FTC chair.On this episode, Khan returns to Capitalisn't to reflect on her tenure, her vision of capitalism, and how her approach to enforcing existing laws with new thinking may have impacted the everyday lives of Americans. How does she respond to her critics, who include major Democratic business leaders? How does she view the new Trump administration, which is continuing many of her transformative policies, including revised merger guidelines and major lawsuits? As a senator, Vice President JD Vance said she was “one of the few people in the Biden administration actually doing a pretty good job.” Reflecting on her work, Khan also touches upon how conflicts of interest among corporate lawyers and consultants, former bureaucrats, and academics distort policymaking, court rulings, and market outcomes. Finally, she highlights the antitrust issues to pay attention to moving forward, such as algorithmic collusion.Show Notes: Also, check out ProMarket's series on the future of the Neo-Brandesian movement, of which Lina Khan is an emblematic figure.

Imagine that you're an entrepreneur who's already had an exit. You're working on a Master's degree at MIT's Entrepreneur Program, and then you get a call from a talent scout at Shark Tank.Not only that, but that phone call landed you a million-dollar investment from the Sharks for your restaurant business (still one of the top five deals ever to this day) and a seven-figure exit a few years later.That's just scratching the surface of why I'm excited to introduce you to my friend Yuen Yung. Yuen is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and the Co-Founder of HalBar Partners, a niche private equity firm specializing in a relatively unknown but powerful asset class: Search Funds.In our conversation, you'll hear the experience Yuen has gained from having several successful exists, why he believes that alternative investments and real estate offer better ROI and security than the public markets, and why his newest venture into search funds—an asset class averaging a 35% IRR—could be a game-changer for investors seeking higher multiples with the steady returns of private equity.In this episode, you'll learn: 1.) Why traditional stock market investing with 60/40 portfolios feels outdated—and why the ultra-wealthy are investing their money in alternative investments.2.) What Search Funds are and why this niche asset class differs from the more common private equity and venture capital investment opportunities—and why most people have never heard of them.3.) How Yuen earned a $1 million dollar investment on Shark Tank, despite initially turning down the opportunity and how he turned it into a 7-figure exit.Show Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/238Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today's episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

 Sand Hill Road Host Scott McGrew speaks with Wharton Vice Dean of Entrepreneurship Lori Rosenkopf, author of Unstoppable Entrepreneurs: 7 Paths for Unleashing Successful Startups and Creating Value through Innovation.  They talk about breaking the mold of the "typical" founder, why the median age of successful startup founders is older than you think, and how economic dislocation may actually fuel the next wave of innovation.Rosenkopf reflects on the myth of the 20-something founder with a Stanford degree and a Greylock check, and predicts how ex-government workers could help reinvent the public sector from the outside.To learn more about Wharton's Venture Lab, visit venturelab.upenn.edu.Sara Bueno manages NBC Bay Area's digital platforms. Stephanie Adrouny is the station's news director. If you'd like to get in touch, email us at sandhillroad@nbcuni.com or on any social media platform at @nbcbayarea.

In this episode of the SaaS Revolution Show, Alex Theuma sits down with Marcus Ryu - Co-founder of Guidewire and now a Partner at Battery Ventures - for an honest conversation about the highs, lows, and hard lessons of building and backing SaaS companies. Marcus shares how he went from pursuing a career in academia to leading a billion-dollar business, what it felt like to face years of rejection, and why he believes true founders don't chase easy wins — they lean into hard problems. He also talks candidly about the realities of being a CEO, the shift into venture capital, and whether AI is truly as transformative as it's hyped to be.Check out the other ways SaaStock is helping SaaS founders move their business forward: 

Kody Kinsley has been called many things—operator, innovator, Medicaid “nerd”—but above all, he's a fierce advocate for the health and well-being of the populations Medicaid serves. Now a senior advisor at the Milken Institute and recently North Carolina's Secretary of Health and Human Services, Kinsley joins Keith Figlioli for a wide-ranging conversation about how Medicaid works, why it matters, and where innovation is reshaping its future. A native of North Carolina, Kinsley brings personal experience and professional depth to his perspective. Growing up uninsured, he watched his mother navigate pediatric clinics, sliding-scale providers, and supply closets offering free samples to keep her kids healthy. That formative exposure ultimately propelled him into a career spanning healthcare operations, behavioral health, public policy, and government leadership. As North Carolina's health secretary, Kinsley led one of the country's largest and most complex human services agencies, overseeing everything from Medicaid operations and public health to psychiatric hospitals and child welfare. He played a central role in advancing Medicaid expansion in the state—an achievement shaped by bipartisan negotiation, careful balancing of federal and state resources, and a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape. In this episode, Kinsley and Keith cover: The structural realities behind state Medicaid programs. Kinsley describes how mega-agencies like North Carolina's bring together financing, public health, regulation, and direct care delivery—touching millions of lives daily, often invisibly. Federal-state dynamics and looming policy shifts. From federal match rates to provider taxes and budget triggers, Kinsley explains the intricacies of how money moves between federal and state governments—and what's at stake when Congress debates Medicaid cuts or structural reforms. The human cost behind budget debates. Behind every line item is a person: whether it's dental coverage, hospice services, or in-home care, Kinsley argues that policymakers must weigh the downstream impacts of funding decisions on real lives and long-term system costs. Bright spots and innovation. Kinsley highlights North Carolina's “Healthy Opportunities” pilot—one of the first initiatives nationally to use Medicaid dollars for non-medical needs like food, housing, and transportation. Early results show promise, including improved outcomes and significant cost savings, suggesting a roadmap for other states. Looking forward. While political winds may shift and financial pressures mount, Kinsley remains optimistic. He points to growing public support for Medicaid and hopes the nation can move beyond divisive debates over whether healthcare is a right or privilege—focusing instead on smarter, more sustainable ways to deliver care. To hear Kody Kinsley and Keith Figlioli unpack these topics and more, listen to this episode of Healthcare is Hard: A Podcast for Insiders. 

Como uma empresa nascida em uma garagem enfrentou SAP, Oracle e as maiores potências globais — e venceu? Neste episódio, destrinchamos a jornada da TOTVS, do zero ao topo do mercado de ERPs na América Latina.Spoiler: não teve Venture Capital, teve visão, risco e execução.Com Pedro Waengertner e Pedro Carneiro, exploramos as decisões ousadas, os erros, as estratégias de crescimento (orgânicas e inorgânicas) e como a TOTVS segue se reinventando com IA, fintech e M&As bilionários.

Highlights from their conversation include:Welcoming Bola to the Dynamo Team (0:41)Founders in the Industrial Sector (3:14)Madelyn's Promotion and Focus (5:37)Geopolitical Tensions and Supply Chain (7:35)Dynamo's Rebranding and Focus (12:03)AI's Role in Venture Capital (18:02)Navigating Global Trade Policies (22:54)Impact of Tariffs on Supply Chain (24:01)Non-Tariff Restrictions and Semiconductor Industry (26:04)  Consumer Confidence and Economic Outlook (29:12)Uncertainty in Manufacturing Sector (32:29)Autonomous Vehicles and Market Trends (35:12)Future of Drone Delivery and Parting Thoughts (39:15)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/

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jacqueline Novogratz, Founder & CEO of Acumen on her global journey that led her from the world of international banking to the heart of social entrepreneurship—beginning in Rwanda, and now reaching 650+ million lives through Acumen's work around the world.From Chase Bank to Kigali: A Journey Rooted in EmpathyJacqueline's journey began not with a grand strategy, but with a moment of clarity while working in Rwanda in the late 1980s, where she helped launch one of the country's first microfinance institutions.There, she witnessed how markets could be harnessed to empower individuals—especially women—but also saw how fragmented and fragile traditional aid systems were."Access isn't enough; capability is key."That idea would eventually become Acumen.The Founding of Acumen: Bridging Markets and PhilanthropyFounded in 2001, Acumen was created to tackle what Jacqueline calls "the blue flame" space—the gap between pure philanthropy and market-driven capitalism. Acumen uses “patient capital” to invest in entrepreneurs solving problems in energy, agriculture, healthcare, education, and workforce development."We need to reframe what risk means in investing."Acumen has since invested over $150 million into companies that have impacted millions of people in low-income communities across Africa, South Asia, Latin America, and the U.S. But the goal isn't just scale—it's systemic change.What It Takes to Build Markets That Work for the PoorJacqueline explains that creating sustainable impact requires far more than capital—it demands a deep understanding of local contexts, cultural norms, and the lived experiences of the communities being served."The status quo exists for a reason; change is hard."She emphasizes that real progress depends on:Entrepreneurial courageLong-term thinkingCollaboration with governments and civil societyAcumen works to build "markets with moral imagination", where value creation doesn't come at the cost of human dignity or environmental degradation.Education, Circular Impact, and the Future of Social EntrepreneurshipAnother major focus of Acumen is education. Through the Acumen Academy, they've trained over 1,800 social enterprise leaders, equipping them with tools in moral leadership, storytelling, and systems thinking.Jacqueline envisions a circular economy of impact investing, where capital flows to and from communities, creating sustainable, inclusive systems over time."Resilience and moral imagination are essential qualities for social entrepreneurs."She sees the future of impact rooted in innovative partnerships—between private and public sectors, startups and institutions, and across geographies.A Legacy of Courage and CompassionAs Jacqueline looks ahead, her message is clear: we need a new moral framework for capitalism—one that measures success not just in returns, but in human dignity and long-term value for society.Her story is a reminder that systems can change, markets can heal, and entrepreneurs—when supported with the right kind of capital and community—can solve the world's most pressing problems. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

Highlights from this week's conversation include:Introduction of Guests (0:13)Raudline's Journey to Allocator (1:18)Kevin's Non-Traditional Path (2:37)Lessons from the Allocator Perspective (4:03)Balancing Process and Creativity (9:54)Raudline's Firm Inspiration (11:15)Kevin's Firm Motivation (13:57)Building Founder Relationships (19:10)Embracing Discomfort for Growth (24:04)Changes in LP Expectations (30:28)Growth Through Discomfort (34:31)Characteristics of a Good Investor (37:30)Timing in Venture Capital (41:03)Evaluating Opportunities (44:24)Rethinking Fund of Funds (48:22)Impact of Technology on Investment (51:08)Building Relationships in Venture Capital (54:55)Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks (1:00:00)Daraja Capital is a mission-driven investment firm focused on empowering diverse and emerging fund managers across the private markets. By providing strategic capital, operational support, and long-term partnership, Daraja Capital bridges opportunity gaps and helps unlock the next generation of world-changing investors and entrepreneurs. Learn more about their work and vision at darajacapital.com.Serac Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm investing in the next generation of global companies. Our willingness to venture where others won't provide access to new markets and creates differentiated opportunities for our network of founders and investors. The firm takes its name from large ice formations (seracs) that form at high altitudes in the tallest mountains in the world. Seracs are the most difficult obstacles to overcome before reaching the summit. Similarly, our mission is to guide founders to help them overcome the ‘seracs' they encounter as they grow their companies. For more information, please visit www.seracventures.vcSidley Austin LLP is a premier global law firm with a dedicated Venture Funds practice, advising top venture capital firms, institutional investors, and private equity sponsors on fund formation, investment structuring, and regulatory compliance. With deep expertise across private markets, Sidley provides strategic legal counsel to help funds scale effectively. Learn more at sidley.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.

This week, Zak and Aaron take a moment to celebrate the runaway critical and commercial success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33... and then dig into why it won't matter at all to big publishers and the money-making machine behind them. Tragically, the narrative that breakout hits in the singleplayer space can somehow make them appealing to investors again is misguided, and Clair Obscur is just the most recent example. This is why we can't have nice things.Please, enjoy.Watch: The games industry is screwed - Alanah PearceRead: The State of Video Gaming in 2025 - Matthew BallListen to Beach Girl on SpotifyCheck out MosscatMarket on EtsyCheck out even more MosscatMarket on Instagram

Evan Quinn and his cofounders run one of the nation's leading non-alcoholic beverage brands. Before going to market, the cofounders raised their first million dollars, turned feedback from investors into product improvement, and used their MBA network to refine the business strategy.Watch the video interview on YouTube here. For more on Hiyo and show notes click here. Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

What's the secret to scaling a franchise brand with venture capital? In today's episode, Yoni Rechtman shares his insights into what makes franchising a powerful tool for growth and why it's not just about finding the right product, but about creating systems that work. Yoni, a principal at Slow Ventures, joins Erik Van Horn to discuss the intersection of franchising and venture capital, explaining why the model is often misunderstood in the investment world. They dive into finding the right founder, the importance of scalable systems, and why franchisors must think beyond just opening more units.  If you're a founder or investor, this episode will give you the roadmap to build for growth and success. Tune in for an insider's perspective on how to make franchising work for you!   “I don't think you can build healthy businesses by just hacking it, cheating, and cutting corners. You can maybe do something quickly, but you can't build something durable. And what matters is building something durable that will outlive you and be a long-standing, important company." ~ Yoni Rechtman   In This Episode: - Meet Yoni Rechtman, Principal at Slow Ventures - Why other VCs are not as interested in franchising as Yoni - Yoni's advice to the founder who wants to raise capital - Liquidity timelines and the philosophy behind Slow Ventures - The importance of a founder's vision and ambition - How to determine brand valuation - What Yoni is looking for in a founder and a brand - Angel investor vs. venture capitalist - How VCs help franchise owners grow - Where founders should be focusing  - The value of building scalable systems for long-term success   Resources: 

Constitutional fun facts in honor of The American Legion National Oratorical Competition Finals THE INTERVIEW Army combat veteran Blake Hall created his company to protect veterans from identity theft. Veterans are more than 80% likely to have their identity stolen than other Americans. Learn how ID.me prevents fraud in this week's episode. SCUTTLEBUTT A salute Ronin – the hero rat who set a Guinness World Record for detecting landmines Legionnaires supporting manners, etiquette and Americanism in South Carolina Special Guest: Blake Hall.

Dime qué piensas del episodio.Cracks está nominado como mejor podcast de entrevista en los Spotify Podcast Awards y necesitamos tu ayuda para ganar la categoría. Puedes votar una vez al día del 7-21 de mayo en cracks.la/premios.Hoy tengo de vuelta a un viejo amigo de este podcast y probablemente uno de los cerebros más brillantes —y al mismo tiempo más humanos— del venture capital en Latinoamérica. Héctor Sepúlveda @the_hect es socio fundador de Nazca, pero más allá de los fondos, las inversiones y los retornos extraordinarios, lo que ha vivido en los últimos años es una historia de transformación profunda. Desde el duelo y el divorcio hasta fundar nuevas empresas, enfrentar desafíos familiares, levantar un nuevo fondo y acompañar la recuperación de su hija, Héctor ha estado en la cima del juego… y en sus momentos más vulnerables. Esta conversación no solo es una actualización, es una lección de resiliencia, liderazgo y evolución personal.Por favor ayúdame y sigue Cracks Podcast en YouTube aquí.“El balance no existe. Lo que existe es el costo que estás dispuesto a pagar.”- Héctor Sepúlveda @hsrr79Comparte esta frase en TwitterEste episodio es presentado por Laboratorios LABBE, el laboratorio médico que ofrece una amplia gama de análisis clínicos, recolectados de forma segura en la comodidad de tu hogar y por Hostinger la plataforma que te permite tener un dominio y crear tu página de internet usando inteligencia artificial.Qué puedes aprender hoyCómo. tener buenas conversacionesDiferencia entre operadores y emprendedoresPor qué hay que reconocer héroes ocultos*Este episodio es presentado por Hostinger¿Sabías que tengo más de 50 dominios registrados? Sí… cada vez que se me ocurre una idea de negocio, lo primero que hago es asegurar el dominio.Porque para mí, una idea sin dominio… es como una empresa sin nombre.Y es que hoy, si quieres ganar dinero en internet, necesitas una página web.Con Hostinger puedes crear tu sitio en cuestión de minutos. No necesitas saber programar, ni ser diseñador.Con el plan Business de Hostinger tienes acceso una herramienta de inteligencia artificial que construye el sitio por ti. Solo escribes dos o tres líneas sobre tu proyecto… haces clic… y listo. Después lo puedes editar con funcionalidad de arrastrar y soltar.Y por si fuera poco, ¡también tienes un dominio gratis!Por escuchar Cracks, Hostinger te regala 10% de descuento si vas a hostinger.com/cracks y usas el código CRACKS*Este episodio es presentado por LABBE“Hoy, estamos muy emocionados de contar con el apoyo de Labbe, tu laboratorio donde quieras.¿Sabías que ahora puedes realizarte estudios de laboratorio sin salir de casa u oficina? Ya sea que necesites hacerte análisis por instrucción médica o simplemente para monitorear tus biomarcadores buscando un mejor desempeño, Labbe ofrece una amplia gama de análisis clínicos, recolectados de forma segura en la comodidad de tu hogar.Desde realizarte un perfil de salud general o pruebas específicas, su equipo de profesionales garantiza un servicio de alta calidad y resultados confiables.Para ti que escuchas cracks LABBE te regala 10% Ve el episodio en Youtube

Immad Akhund is the CEO of Mercury. Launched in 2019, Mercury has raised $500M in funding from Sequoia, Coatue, CRV, Andreessen Horowitz and others. He is a former part-time partner at Y Combinator and is an active angel investor, with more than 350 investments in startups including Rippling, AirTable, Rappi, Applied Intuition, and Substack. In Today's Episode We Discuss: 04:38 Exclusive News: New Fund Announcement 05:15 Lessons from 350 Angel Investments 12:27 Why Founders Should Always Push for the Highest Price 14:40 Biggest Wins and Misses in Angel Investing 22:56 How Sequoia Came to Lead the Series C for Mercury 31:32 Why Move From Angel to VC 33:41 Is It Wrong For Founders to Also Have Funds with LP Capital? 36:28 AI Investments: Overhyped or Worthwhile? 41:14 Raising a First Time Fund: Challenges & Surprises 49:47 The Future of Venture Capital 54:36 Quickfire Questions and Reflections  

Matt Murphy transformed Marvell from a broad-based chip supplier into a $100B data infrastructure leader—powering the rise of AI, cloud, 5G, and custom silicon.On this week's Grit, the Marvell CEO shares how he refocused the company's strategy, led major acquisitions like Inphi ($10B) and Cavium ($6B), and positioned Marvell at the center of the next era of compute.He also reflects on lessons from his father, a longtime CEO, the discipline of running 90 miles a week, and how staying steady through industry cycles has set him apart.Chapters:00:00 Trailer00:47 Introduction03:00 Huge company, taking the long view10:28 Market cap shift to big tech14:44 The data infrastructure opportunity20:30 Massive economic opportunity31:33 Semiconductor industry and geopolitics40:46 Taiwan and Moore's Law 44:05 Getting hammered down 50%47:05 Silicon Valley51:15 All in despite risks55:37 The CEO checkbox1:01:22 Email from Matt, subject: Grit1:07:35 The higher you go1:15:44 Who Marvell is hiring1:20:14 What “grit” means to Matt1:24:40 OutroMentioned in this episode: Jim Cramer, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC), Maxim Integrated, Mattel, Inc., Cisco Systems, Inc, Juniper Networks, Meta Platforms, Amazon.com, Inc., Cavium, Inc., Inphi Corporation, Aquantia Corporation, Mellanox Technologies, Nvidia Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, OpenAI, Anthropic, John Chambers, Facebook, Spotify, Airbnb, Google, Barack Obama, Ronald Reagan, Donald Trump, Intel Corporation, Robert Norton Noyce, Gordon Moore, Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD), Andrew "Andy" Stephen Grove, Bloomberg, Intuit Inc., Lip-Bu Tan, Sehat Sutardja, Whay S. Lee, Starboard Value, Rick Hill, Novellus Systems, Inc., Michael Strachan, Deloitte & Touche LLP, Apple Inc., Steve Jobs, Chris KoopmansLinks:Connect with MattLinkedInConnect with JoubinXLinkedInEmail: grit@kleinerperkins.comLearn more about Kleiner Perkins

In this episode, Ben and Jay welcome Patrick McGee, author of 'Apple in China', who discusses his extensive research on Apple's relationship with China. The conversation explores how Apple's investments and manufacturing strategies have significantly influenced China's technological landscape, as well as the cultural impact of Apple products in China. Patrick shares insights from his book, detailing the evolution of Apple's supply chain and the pivotal role of Foxconn in Apple's success. In this conversation, Patrick McGee discusses the intricate relationship between Apple and its supply chain, particularly focusing on Foxconn and Chinese manufacturers. He highlights how Apple's business model has influenced the manufacturing landscape in China, the challenges of replicating this model elsewhere, and the critical role of TSMC in Apple's operations. The discussion also touches on the implications of IP transfer and the impact of Tesla in the EV industry, showcasing the broader effects of Apple's strategies on global manufacturing and economics.

Anthony Georgiades shares the future of venture capital in the age of AI. He shares his journey from an early failed startup to becoming a deeply technical investor focused on frontier technologies. He emphasizes the importance of technical literacy in venture capital, especially when evaluating deep tech. We also touch on the economic and existential risks of AI, emphasizing the need for governance, transparency, and decentralized control, while pointing to robotics as a slower-moving but ultimately transformative force in the physical economy. We discuss...  Anthony Georgiades shared his background in business, venture capital, and a technical pivot into computer science and robotics. A failed early startup experience drove him to gain deeper technical proficiency to better assess and build emerging technologies. He emphasized the importance of deeply understanding deep tech and being able to speak fluently with technical founders. Web3 use cases are becoming more real, with examples like decentralized AI inference, verifiable model outputs, and on-chain computation. He highlighted the importance of decentralized GPU marketplaces and AI-native blockchains as potential disruptors. Web3's decentralized financial infrastructure enables instant, global, and permission-less access to financial instruments. Banks remain entrenched due to regulatory, compliance, and sovereign monetary systems, despite growing disruption. Crypto is unlikely to replace fiat overnight due to legal, infrastructure, and fractional reserve complexities. AI is seen as the most inevitable trend, already impacting industries across the board. The exponential development of foundation models and the importance of proprietary data are creating a winner-take-most dynamic. Web3, though earlier in development, is viewed as more disruptive due to its potential to create new markets and rewrite institutional frameworks. He acknowledged real short- and long-term risks with AI, including economic displacement, misinformation, and loss of control. Existential AI risk stems from misaligned goals, where intelligent systems could pursue objectives with harmful side effects. Open models, auditable systems, and decentralized infrastructure are key to safer AI development. Robotics is considered the “final frontier” of disruption, especially as intelligent machines become capable of operating in the physical world. Use cases like autonomous farming are emerging as impactful applications of robotics innovation. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management   Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/venture-capital-in-the-age-of-ai-anthony-georgiades-710   

After a challenging 2024, Lemon Perfect knew it was time for a bold reset. Founder Yanni Hufnagel led the charge with a reengineered bottle and improved formula, but the brand's comeback wouldn't be complete without a new look. Enter Paula Grant and creative studio Suite9C, tasked with developing a daring visual identity refresh. This is the story of how a brand turned setback into spotlight. Also in this episode: the hosts unpack Guayaki's unprecedented rebrand to Yerba Madre and what it means for the category-defining brand. They also dive into Gopuff's new GoXL product and whether “value” is shaping up to be a defining theme of 2025. Show notes: 0:45: All Rain, All Rain, All Rain. A Dead Rabbit, A Great Thing. Madre Musing. XLerated Delivery. – Where's that Texas heat? The hosts encounter a rainy, gloomy Austin, but at least The Dead Rabbit delivers on every front. Prior to Taste Radio's meetup later in the day, they discuss Guayaki's rebrand to Yerba Madre and why they're excited to hear from Ghost co-founder Dan Lourenco at BevNET Live. John professes his love for Gopuff, but is he excited about the prospect of buying 12 rolls of toilet paper from the delivery platform? Ray feels left out of a meeting with an Austin-based founder of chai drinks. 12:55: Paula Grant, Founder, Suite9C & Yanni Hufnagel, Founder, Lemon Perfect – Paula chats about Taste Radio's NYC meetup and stealthy afterparty, before Yanni talks about how Lemon's Perfect's product quality issues spurred the company's refreshed formulation and decision to pursue a brand refresh. Paula Paula explains why she rejects the traditional “agency vs. founder” model, instead favoring deeply collaborative, in-the-room design processes. Yanni, a self-described detail obsessive, talks about their intensely collaborative design process, from aligning on visual simplicity to debating tiny but crucial details, like color balance, label hierarchy, and shelf visibility. Paula emphasizes the importance of powerful design that is about aesthetics, storytelling, brand trust, and commercial performance. They both discuss how the refreshed identity positions Lemon Perfect for future innovation and category expansion. Brands in this episode: Yerba Madre, Ghost, Uncrustables, Chobani, Kimbala, Lemon Perfect, Vitaminwater, BodyArmor

The latest episode of Elevator Talk features leaders from Joon, Scobucha, Hey!Hunger, Jozo and Fable Fish Co. Watch founders and CEOs introduce their brands and provide a recap of recent news and updates. This week's special co-host is Eleanor Hayden, the founder & CEO of Hayden Consultancy, who shared her thoughts, questions and feedback with the participants. She is joined by Ray Latif, the editor and producer of the Taste Radio podcast. Founders and CEOs of early stage food or beverage brands are invited to join future shows to pitch their products, discuss recent news and get feedback from industry experts. It is free to participate and interviews will be conducted remotely. Apply for a future episode of Elevator Talk.

How do you lead with conviction—without losing your center?Tenzin Seldon is a global climate advocate, human rights leader, and one of the first Tibetan-Americans to rise through the ranks of elite institutions like Stanford and Oxford. But her story isn't about prestige—it's about purpose.Born to Tibetan refugee parents, Tenzin's life has been shaped by activism, faith, and a deep connection to community. In this conversation, she shares what it means to be “the first,” how ritual and compassion help her stay grounded, and why indigenous wisdom is essential to solving the climate crisis.We explore the inner practices that support outer impact, and the tension between ambition and integrity. Tenzin offers a refreshing perspective—one that moves beyond fear and toward meaningful action.Originally recorded last fall, this episode feels more urgent than ever. As you listen, reflect on what it takes to stay rooted when the world feels uncertain—and how you show up when your values are tested.__________________Learn more about Tenzin's climate investment work at www.pulsefund.com__________________Get Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine here: https://findingmastery.com/morningmindset/Get exclusive discounts from our sponsors here: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Watch this episode and many more on our YouTube ChannelSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today's Topics: 04:44 Analysis of $3 Billion Windsurf Acquisition 12:39 Will Mega Funds Win the Future of Venture Capital 18:39 Does Every Fund Have to do Pre-Seed to Win Series A and B Today 27:53 Why AI Will Create Massive Unemployment 31:06 The $100,000 Bet on the Future of Work  35:52 Why Venture Has Become a Bundled Good 37:52 Why Stage Specific Firms Will Win: a16z vs Benchmark 40:16 What Does Harvard Losing It's For Profit Status Mean for Venture 42:57 Why AI is Maiming and Not Killing Growth Companies on the Path to IPO 45:41 Decagon Raises 100x ARR: The Breakdown 52:50 Why VCs Are Upside Junkies and What That Means Today 01:03:37 Olo Looking to Sell: What Happens When Public Companies Want to Sell