The Silicon Valley Podcast

Join us for an insightful conversation with Taylor Brandt, a Partner at Headline, where we dive into the world of venture capital and B2B software. Taylor specializes in vertical SaaS, B2B marketplaces, and commerce infrastructure as a Partner in Headline’s In this episode, we explore Taylor's unique perspective, shaped by her background in marketing and analytics engineering: We cover key topics for founders and aspiring VCs, including: Disclaimer: The views expressed on this podcast are for informational purposes only and not financial or legal advice. Consult with a professional for your specific situation. The views expressed are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Connect with Taylor Brandt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-brandt-89415250/ https://headline.com/ #VentureCapital #FounderAdvice #TechInvesting #SaaSTech #StartupFunding #VC

Mercedes Bent, formerly a Partner at Lightspeed, and a leading investor in fintech, AI, and consumer companies. Guest Bio: Mercedes Bent is a seasoned investor with a background that spans venture capital, startups, and institutional finance. As a former Partner at Lightspeed, she spent over five years leading investments in companies like Stori, Mexico's first tech unicorn co-founded by a woman. Before her time in VC, she served as a General Manager, scaling a startup from $2M to $100M in revenue, and worked at Goldman Sachs managing $1.75B in assets. Mercedes holds degrees from Harvard and Stanford. Episode Summary: Join us for a deep dive with Mercedes Bent, a top investor with a unique perspective on technology, finance, and building a successful career. We'll discuss her journey from managing institutional assets at Goldman to becoming a partner at a major venture fund. Mercedes will share her insights on how to identify market trends, evaluate founders, and the critical role of timing in a fund’s performance. Key Discussion Points: Connect with the Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mercedesbent/ Disclaimer: The views expressed are for informational purposes only and not financial or legal advice. Opinions are my own and do not reflect those of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Consult a professional for your specific situation.

Bio: Ross is a founder, engineer, and early-stage technology investor who focuses on helping significant ideas scale up. He believes in working with "amazing people who build products indistinguishable from magic." His unique strength lies in connecting people. Episode Summary: In this episode, we sit down with Ross Fubini to discuss his journey from building companies to investing in them. Ross shares how he developed the thesis for XYZ, a fund that invests in founders tackling big problems across sectors like public policy, fintech, and climate. We'll explore what it means to make "seismic shifts in society" and what sets founders who "make doing the work their unfair advantage" apart from the rest. Key Discussion Points: From Builder to Investor: What inspired Ross to transition from engineering to venture capital. The XYZ Thesis: A deep dive into the fund's investment strategy and how it differs from other early-stage firms. The "2nd Derivative of Investments": Ross explains this unique investment concept and how he applies it to his decision-making. Public Sector Impact: How the public sector ecosystem influences private sector investment decisions. LP Reporting: Ross shares insights on how to structure effective quarterly reports and what Limited Partners truly value. The Deal Review Process: A look at the critical factors Ross evaluates when deciding to invest in a founder. Founder Mindset: The non-negotiable behaviors and traits Ross looks for in an early-stage founder. Investing in Volatility: A discussion on how funds can pivot and refine their strategies in a challenging macro environment. Learn More About Ross and XYZ: Ross Fubini's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fubini/ XYZ Venture Capital Website: http://www.xyz.vc

Episode Summary: In this episode, we sit down with Ben Van Roo, CEO and Co-Founder of Legion Intelligence and a seasoned leader whose career spans building cutting-edge AI solutions for both the public and private sectors. From working with the Department of Defense at RAND to leading data science at Chegg, serving as EVP of National Security at Primer AI, and now driving innovation at Yurts, Ben brings a rare perspective on AI, leadership, and scaling technology for mission-critical environments. We dive into his journey of building strong company cultures, navigating brand transformations, and understanding the differences between public and private sector AI adoption. Ben also shares valuable lessons on choosing the right investors, balancing family life with startup leadership, and why timing can be as important as talent in the entrepreneurial journey. If you’re a founder, operator, or AI enthusiast—especially one interested in government tech, venture capital relationships, or building trust in enterprise AI—this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Key Topics Discussed: Resources & Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanroo/ LEGION | Secure AI for Mission-Critical Teams The views expressed on this podcast are for informational purposes only and not financial or legal advice. Consult with a professional for your specific situation." “The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.”

Guest: George Panagiotakopoulos, Innovation Ecosystem Development -Advisor, Berkeley SkyDeck Episode Summary: Join us as we sit down with George Panagiotakopoulos, who works with UC Berkeley who has a unique vantage point from his work in Europe, Asia, and beyond, George shares his insights on building global innovation ecosystems and the nuances of cross-border collaboration. We'll explore how Berkeley is expanding its accelerator model internationally, the differences in venture capital ecosystems and risk tolerances worldwide, and the common misconceptions that investors and founders face when navigating new markets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of startups, venture capital, and global innovation. Key Discussion Points: Learn More: George Panagiotakopoulos | LinkedInhttp://skydeck.berkeley.edu/ Disclaimer: The views expressed on this podcast are for informational purposes only and not financial or legal advice. Consult with a professional for your specific situation. The views expressed are the people of this show and do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Guest: Dr. Tom Coughlin, President, Coughlin Associates, IEEE Past President (2025) Website: https://tomcoughlin.com FMS Conference: https://futurememorystorage.com/ Episode Summary: Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Tom Coughlin, a seasoned digital storage analyst and consultant with over 40 years in the industry. Tom, the President of Coughlin Associates and former IEEE President, shares unparalleled insights into the foundational technologies shaping our digital world. We delve into the crucial role of memory in AI's development, the surprising realities of storage demand, and the fascinating world of breakthrough memory technologies. Discover why memory often gets overlooked in AI discussions, critical considerations for data privacy, and the global impact of the IEEE. Tom also previews the upcoming Future of Memory and Storage (FMS) conference and offers invaluable career advice for tech entrepreneurs. Key Discussion Points: Learn More About Dr. Tom Coughlin and FMS: https://futurememorystorage.com/ https://tomcoughlin.com Disclaimer: The information provided in these show notes is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or technical advice. Views expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast host or its affiliates..do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any decisions.

“Buying a Business the Right Way — Lessons from the Front Lines” Guest: Jed Morris — Acquisition Entrepreneur, Operator, and Advisor Connect with Jed on LinkedIn In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, we sit down with Jed Morris, a seasoned acquisition entrepreneur with firsthand experience navigating the highs and lows of buying and operating businesses. Jed shares candid lessons from his own journey — including what went wrong, what he’d do differently, and the hard-won wisdom you won’t find in most search fund playbooks or weekend bootcamps. Whether you’re from a tech background looking to buy your first brick-and-mortar company or an aspiring searcher wanting to avoid costly missteps, Jed brings invaluable insights you won’t want to miss. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: 📬 Connect with Jed Morris: To learn more, collaborate, or seek guidance in the acquisition space, reach out to Jed via LinkedIn. 🎧 Hosted by: Shawn Flynn — Managing Director at SVH Capital and Host of The Silicon Valley Podcast Learn more at www.SVHCapital.com 📌 Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. The views expressed are those of the speaker and do not necessarily reflect the views of SVH Capital, Finalis Securities LLC, or any affiliates.

🎧 Episode Summary: In this episode, we sit down with Arto Bendiken, a self-taught polymath, technologist, and entrepreneur whose journey spans building custom software in Finland at 13, contributing to defense communications for the U.S. Navy, scaling blockchain infrastructure at Aurora Labs, and now launching Haltia.AI in Dubai. We dive deep into the evolution of Web3, the intersection of AI and crypto, real-world blockchain applications, tokenomics, smart contract risks, and how the global landscape—from Silicon Valley to Dubai—is shifting. This episode is a masterclass for anyone curious about the future of decentralization, personal AI, and global entrepreneurship. 🧠 Key Topics Covered: 🔥 Highlight Questions: 🌍 About the Guest: Arto Bendiken is a serial entrepreneur and CTO with 30+ years of experience across software, AI, and crypto. He has built tech solutions for major banks, defense agencies, and public companies, and has helped scale Web3 infrastructure to millions of users globally. He is currently the Founder of Haltia.AI, where he is building trustworthy personal AI systems and launching the ASIMOV Protocol, a global knowledge market. Connect with Arto on LinkedIn 📚 Resources & Mentions: Disclaimer:"The views expressed on this podcast are for informational purposes only and not financial or legal advice. Consult with a professional for your specific situation. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.”

Guest: Anita Koimur, Co-founder & COO of LiveFlow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitakoimur/ Episode Summary: Join us as we sit down with Anita Koimur, a seasoned entrepreneur and the brilliant mind behind LiveFlow. Anita shares her compelling journey from a successful career in Business Development to co-founding a groundbreaking company. We delve into her experiences, including her time at the prestigious Y Combinator, and explore the critical decisions founders face, such as relocating to be closer to their market. This episode offers invaluable insights into identifying and acquiring early customers, the dynamic evolution of a product, and the transformative power of AI in both blue-collar/service industries and the future of financial automation. Anita also sheds light on the challenges CFOs face with disparate financial documents, the complexities of M&A in the finance world, and where she sees LiveFlow positioned within the broader landscape of AI tools. Tune in for a deep dive into business growth, strategic product development, and the exciting future of financial automation. Key Discussion Points: Website https://www.liveflow.com/ Promo Code: SVP The views expressed on this podcast are for informational purposes only and not financial or legal advice. Consult with a professional for your specific situation. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.”

In this episode, we sit down with Ron Petrinovich, a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Freedom Equity Group (FEG). With deep roots in Silicon Valley and a legacy shaped by family, faith, and business acumen, Ron shares pivotal moments from his entrepreneurial journey—including multiple business restarts, scaling a company to national success, and eventually exiting in 2024. Ron offers candid insights into what it takes to build a company with values at the core, the importance of team-building from day one, and how he designed a unique internal point system that fueled performance and growth. From leadership evolution to fostering a scalable culture, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for entrepreneurs at any stage. 👤 Guest Bio: Ron Petrinovich was born and raised in Los Gatos, California. He holds a BS and MBA from Santa Clara University and spent decades building a career rooted in business leadership, mentorship, and tax-efficient retirement planning. Ron was deeply influenced by his father—a successful CPA and entrepreneur—which instilled in him the drive to build and scale ventures that empower others. After co-founding and leading Freedom Equity Group to a successful exit in 2024, Ron now dedicates his time to mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs. 💬 What You'll Learn in This Episode: The entrepreneurial lessons Ron learned from growing up with a CPA father How to navigate business restarts and turn them into moments of growth What differentiated Ron’s approach when launching his final company The scalable point system he developed to drive motivation and results Key strategies that helped FEG scale nationally How leadership evolves with company growth The traits Ron looks for in early hires—and how to build a value-aligned culture Why great training matters and how to structure it The mindset behind mentoring future leaders 🔑 Key Questions Covered: What pivotal restarts shaped your career, and what did they teach you? How did your upbringing with a CPA father influence your business mindset? What made your most recent venture different from earlier efforts? Can you explain the point system you implemented and how it impacted your team? How did you know when your company had real traction, and how did you respond? How did your role evolve as the business grew? What are you most proud of, and what would you do differently? How do you foster a scalable, values-driven culture? What advice do you have for startups trying to attract strong early talent? What does great training and leadership development look like to you? 🔗 Connect with Ron Petrinovich: 🔹 Ron on LinkedIn The views expressed on this podcast are for informational purposes only and not financial or legal advice. Consult with a professional for your specific situation. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, we sit down with Rick Otton, author of How to Sell Without Ever Saying a Word, and a global expert in communication, influence, and what he calls Subliminal Science. Rick has built a career challenging traditional sales tactics, instead unlocking the power of subconscious communication and emotional decision-making. Introduced through M&A strategist Craig Keegan, Rick shares the lessons and philosophies that have helped him build successful brands and businesses across the world—without spending big on advertising. We explore how Rick's unique approach applies to entrepreneurship, dealmaking, brand building, and life itself. 🔍 In This Episode, We Cover: 🔗 Learn More About Rick: subliminalselling.co Rick Otton 💡 Quote from Rick: “You don’t need to be the smartest person in the room—you need to be the one asking the right questions.” ⚠️ Disclaimer: The views expressed on this podcast are for informational purposes only and not financial or legal advice. Consult with a professional for your specific situation. The views expressed are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, we sit down with Jeffrey Tiong, the visionary founder and CEO of PatSnap, a global leader in IP and R&D intelligence. From identifying a market gap in patent data to building a unicorn that serves some of the world’s top innovators, Jeffrey shares the insights behind his entrepreneurial journey—and where he sees the future of innovation heading. We explore how the role of intellectual property is evolving in a fast-moving tech world, why PatSnap chose not to go public in Singapore, and how powerful AI agents are reshaping the B2B landscape. Whether you're a founder, investor, or technologist, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways on staying competitive in today’s innovation economy. 🔑 Topics Covered: 🧠 Bonus Insights: 👤 About Jeffrey Tiong: Jeffrey Tiong is the founder and CEO of PatSnap, a platform that helps innovators access and understand global IP and R&D data. With a mission to democratize innovation, Jeffrey has built PatSnap into a global tech powerhouse, supporting companies in over 50 countries. 🔗 Connect with Jeffrey: LinkedIn 🌐 Learn more about PatSnap: www.patsnap.com ⚠️ Disclaimers: The views expressed on this podcast are for informational purposes only and not financial or legal advice. Consult with a professional for your specific situation. The views expressed are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. 🎧 Subscribe to The Silicon Valley Podcast for more conversations with tech leaders, founders, and disruptors shaping the future.

In this episode, we sit down with Keshia Theobald-van Gent, a seasoned venture capital investor with deep expertise in fund economics, portfolio strategy, and founder alignment. Keshia shares her sharp insights into how today’s most successful VCs operate and what emerging fund managers and founders need to know to succeed in this dynamic ecosystem. Whether you're a founder seeking to better understand how VCs evaluate your startup, or an emerging fund manager preparing to launch your first fund, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways and deep industry wisdom. 🔍 Topics Covered: 💡 Bonus Insights (if time allows): 📬 Connect with Keshia: To follow Keshia’s work or reach out for collaboration, connect with her on LinkedIn. 📌 Disclaimer: The views expressed in this episode are for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute financial or investment advice. The views expressed are personal and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organizations. Such as the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.”

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: 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: 🔗 LinkedIn – Mohamed Ahmed 📚 Learn more about his book and upcoming projects [insert website or link if applicable] Subscribe & Follow: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show! Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of business, technology, and personal transformation. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are for informational purposes only and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers (past or present), or the podcast host. This content is not intended to be and should not be construed as legal, investment, or professional advice. The views expressed are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

In this episode, Shawn sits down with John Bisack, an experienced operational strategist and advisor who specializes in helping private equity-backed companies navigate the critical post-acquisition phase. With a background in transforming businesses for profitability, growth, and long-term scalability, John brings deep insights into what it really takes to deliver on the promises of a private equity deal—beyond the closing table. Disclaimer: The content in this episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions. 🎧 What You’ll Learn: 🔍 Topics Covered: 📌 Guest Links: 💼 LinkedIn: John Bisack

In this episode, Shawn sits down with Paul Adler, a veteran strategist in global revenue growth and a trusted advisor for companies entering the complex world of Federal Government markets. With decades of experience guiding businesses through the intricacies of federal contracting, Paul shares practical insights, battle-tested strategies, and hard-won lessons for founders and executives ready to scale through government channels. Whether you’re a startup looking for your first pilot program, or a scaling company considering the government as a strategic customer, this episode offers the clarity and context you need to succeed. 🎧 What You’ll Learn: Why the Federal Government "market" is very different from a government “contract” What makes the U.S. Government a unique and relationship-driven buyer Why commitment and focus are non-negotiables when entering this space The best first steps a company should take—and the common mistakes to avoid How to think about networking, certification, and timing in your market entry Why subcontracting often beats aiming for the "prime" position from day one A real-world success story of an entrepreneur who pivoted to win federal business The truth about lobbyists, political shifts, and procurement dynamics 🔍 Topics Covered: Strategic entry points into government markets Building trust and brand in a relationship-first ecosystem Targeting decision-makers and navigating procurement The role of mentors and proven success stories in early wins Long-term thinking in a highly regulated, highly competitive environment 📌 Guest Links: 🌐 Website: www.thepauladler.com 📧 Email: linkedin.com/in/pauladler1

In this episode, we’re joined by Stan Christensen, a veteran dealmaker, negotiation expert, and founder of Arbor Advisors. With over two decades of experience teaching negotiation at Stanford University and leading high-stakes transactions in the tech world, Stan offers a masterclass in how to navigate complex deals, align incentives, and come out ahead—whether you're raising capital, selling your company, or simply trying to keep a negotiation from falling apart. Stan shares his career-defining moments, hard-earned insights from the front lines of investment banking, and why most founders misunderstand who really does the work behind the scenes. This is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, operators, and anyone who wants to become a better negotiator. 💡 Topics Covered Stan’s journey from educator to investment banker The single biggest myth about great negotiators Advice for founders raising venture capital (hint: think twice) Why the best companies are sold—not bought How to renegotiate the preference stack and protect your payout Tactics to keep a counterparty at the table when they threaten to walk What separates good negotiators from bad ones Choosing the right investment banker (and what red flags to avoid) Are lawyers actually good negotiators? A behind-the-scenes look at a $70M deal that started with a $15M offer Stan’s favorite negotiation books, movies, and frameworks 📚 Recommended Resources Influence by Robert Cialdini How to Know a Person by David Brooks Film: 12 Angry Men 🔗 Connect with Stan Stan Christensen on LinkedIn

Episode Overview Today’s guest is Shalabh Gupta, a visionary entrepreneur and the CEO of a publicly traded company. With deep experience in both public and private markets, Shalabh brings a mission-driven mindset to solving complex problems through innovation. In this episode, he shares his journey to the public markets, lessons learned from operating in the spotlight, and what it really takes to drive long-term shareholder value while staying true to your company’s core mission. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or aspiring public company executive, this conversation is packed with insights into what it means to lead boldly in the public eye. 💡 What You’ll Learn Why Shalabh chose to take his company public earlier than most The tradeoffs between staying private vs. going public Insights into IPOs, SPACs, and reverse mergers — and why his company took its specific route The biggest surprises and challenges of running a public company How to prepare for shareholder meetings (including the hardest questions he’s been asked!) Strategies for balancing quarterly pressures with long-term vision What it takes to personally transition from private leadership to the public stage The core mission of his company — and why it matters now more than ever Advice for future public company CEOs What’s next for Shalabh’s company and how you can follow the journey 🔗 Connect with Shalabh 📍 LinkedIn – Shalabh Gupta

Rahul Pangam — Entrepreneur, AI Strategist, and Founder 🎧 Episode Overview: In this episode, we’re joined by Rahul Pangam, a seasoned entrepreneur and AI leader who successfully built and exited a company during its Series B round. Rahul takes us through the pivotal moments of his entrepreneurial journey — from raising capital to navigating a strategic sale — and shares his deep insights on how AI is reshaping industries, businesses, and the future of work. This candid conversation covers the evolving dynamics between humans and AI, what businesses need to do to stay competitive, and the most common missteps leaders make when adopting new technologies. 📝 Discussion Topics: ✔️ Rahul’s Entrepreneurial Journey — From Silicon Valley to AI leadership ✔️ Navigating a Raise-to-Sale Conversation at Series B ✔️ The Biggest Differences Between the Pre-AI and Post-AI World ✔️ Where Humans Still Outperform AI ✔️ How AI Can Benefit Traditional Industries Slow to Adopt Technology ✔️ Ways AI Can Level the Playing Field for Small Businesses ✔️ AI Readiness: How Companies Should Assess and Prepare ✔️ Common Mistakes in AI Integration and How to Avoid Them ✔️ Measuring ROI on AI Investments ✔️ AI’s Role in Global Geopolitics, Deep-Tech, and Economic Shifts 🎙️ Who Should Listen: 📌 Connect with Rahul Pangam: LinkedIn Profile

In this episode, we sit down with Manish Patel, whose career has spanned Google, venture investing, and product innovation. From playing a pivotal role in scaling transformative products like AdWords and Google Maps to shaping Silicon Valley’s startup ecosystem, Manish brings invaluable insights from the front lines of technology, entrepreneurship, and venture capital. Listeners will hear about his inspiring journey — from growing up in a family business to navigating the world of big tech and early-stage investing — and get practical advice on building startups, raising Series A rounds, and preparing for the future of business. 📝 Discussion Topics: ✔️ Lessons from Manish’s Early Career and Leadership Journey ✔️ How OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) Powered Google’s Growth ✔️ The Role of Luck, Timing, and Preparation in Career Success ✔️ Why Series A Funding Is a Make-or-Break Moment for Startups ✔️ The Biggest Trends and Disruptions Shaping the Next Decade ✔️ Practical Advice for Founders Navigating the Venture Capital World 🎙️ Who Should Listen: