The Sure Shot Entrepreneur

Atlas Berry, founder and general partner at Mission One Capital, delves into funding mission-driven founders who focus on frontier technology solutions to sustainability challenges. Atlas discusses the significance of sustainability to him personally, highlights the specific areas of climate tech his venture capital firm targets, and explores current trends in the industry. He provides deep insights into sustainability opportunities and shares valuable advice for entrepreneurs interested in this sector. In this episode, you’ll learn: [1:41] 'Jason Bourne meets banking': The fascinating early career journey of Atlas Berry. [5:22] How corporate development experience paved the way for a venture capital role. [6:33] The inception of Mission One Capital: Identifying software-driven solutions to climate issues. [12:17] Guidance for founders tackling climate and sustainability challenges: Understand the problems in these areas and respecting regulatory constraints. [16:35] The importance of addressing human issues for successful sustainability solutions. [20:22] Emerging trends in climate tech, including energy, mobility, carbon markets, circularity, and environmental management. [26:00] Why timing is crucial in evaluating sustainability-focused investment opportunities. The non-profit organizations that Atlas is passionate about: The Nature Conservancy About Atlas Berry Atlas Berry is the founder and general partner at Mission One Capital. He began his career in investment banking at JPMorgan, working in Mergers & Acquisitions across New York, Johannesburg, and London. Notably, Atlas established the venture arm for the Grammy-award-winning rock band Linkin Park, where he led investments in high-profile companies such as Lyft, Robinhood, and Impossible Foods. Additionally, he is a two-time TEDx keynote speaker, has mentored at Techstars and the MIT Startup Accelerator, and has served on the Technology Advisory Boards for New York City and Delta Airlines. About Mission One Capital Mission One Capital is a Silicon Valley-based early-stage venture capital firm specializing in ClimateTech and Equitable Access startups. The firm invests in seed-stage companies dedicated to creating a more sustainable and equitable future. Its portfolio includes innovative companies such as Zevvy, Twice, Helio, Cloverly, CHI, Derapi, UPFRONT, Carbonara, and others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Chris McKelvy, founder of K. Ventures and military veteran, recounts his journey from the military to tech companies like Oculus VR and Meta, culminating in establishing his own venture capital firm. Chris talks about his early involvement in JFK family's non-profit initiatives and getting inspired to start K. Ventures, focusing on the disabilities community. Chris also shares useful tips for founders on preparing for meetings with VC and encourages VCs to address societal challenges. In this episode, you’ll learn: [1:45] Transferring military leadership skills to tech and investing for social impact [4:14] K. Ventures takes a unique approach to disabilities by investing seed capital in startups serving this community. [6:22] Startup opportunities: The disabilities community is the largest underrepresented group in the world. [9:23] It takes a lot of mentorship and support to learn the craft of being an entrepreneur. [16:27] Feel comfortable in the way that you want to talk about your business and yourself. [19:18] VCs are guided by their belief in the founding team's ability to lead and create something groundbreaking. [22:35] More investors need to really think about the hard societal problems The non-profit organizations that Chris is passionate about: Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation, iMentor About Chris McKelvy Chris McKelvy is the founder and managing partner at K. Ventures. He has a diverse background spanning tech, business, non-profits, and the military. Notably, he led Oculus VR's partnerships & e-sports division, instrumental in its $2B acquisition by Facebook. Chris orchestrated multimillion-dollar partnerships with tech giants like NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, Unreal, and Ubisoft. A combat veteran with the 101st Airborne Division and graduate of Army Ranger school, he holds degrees from Harvard and Syracuse. Additionally, he served proudly as Vice Chairman of the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation for over eight years. About K. Ventures K. Ventures is a Massachusetts-based venture capital firm with a mission to catalyze the next generation of disability care. The firm invests in early-stage technology companies serving those with intellectual, developmental and learning disabilities. This includes down syndrome, autism, ADHD and dyslexia as well as other overlooked conditions. Portfolio companies include Juno, Juniper, Mightier, Finni Health, and NeuroNav. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Alexa Binns, a seasoned investor and marketer, takes us through her remarkable journey from non-profit roots to establishing herself as a venture capital investor, overseeing her family office alongside her three sisters. Drawing from her dual roles as an angel investor and limited partner, Alexa provides invaluable insights for founders and venture capitalists alike, enriching the conversation with her wealth of experience and perspective. In this episode: [2:03] Alexa’s path to venture capital: Discover how Alexa transitioned from her role in a non-profit organization to making her mark in the competitive world of venture capital. [8:26] Three critical aspects that every founder should understand about angel investors to optimize their interactions and avoid common pitfalls. [12:38] The significant impact of new emerging managers on the venture capital landscape and what this means for the industry. [16:40] The "Three S’s" – sourcing, selecting, and stewardship – essential criteria for assessing and choosing the best emerging fund managers. [22:33] The current state of investment in female founders: are they receiving the funding they rightfully deserve? [28:11] Swimming with Allocators podcast, where limited partners share their decision-making processes in VC investments. The non-profit organization that Alexa is passionate about: Norman Lear Center USC About Alexa Binns Alexa Binns is a seasoned investor and marketer, known for her acute ability to identify emerging trends and technologies. Over her career, she has risen from associate to partner in venture capital, making significant investments at firms such as Maven, Halogen, and Spacecadet. Some of her notable angel investments include Chipper Cash, Sana Benefits, and The Flex Co. In addition to her investing prowess, Alexa brings a decade of operational experience, having developed both digital and physical products for high-profile clients including Planned Parenthood, MTV, Disney, and Target. She excels in innovative marketing strategies; her accomplishments range from writing a master’s thesis on building a brand on YouTube to helping sell the Twitch influencer marketing platform NoScope. She was also nominated for a Mashable Award for her work with Foursquare and pioneered some of the first advertising campaigns on Twitter. Alexa also co-hosts Swimming with Allocators, a venture podcast that offers insights from the limited partner (LP) perspective. Alongside Earnest Sweat, she interviews top allocators and industry leaders weekly, exploring their strategies and perspectives on the next decade of venture capital. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Vijay Reddy, partner at Mayfield, talks about the latest innovations and trends shaping the artificial intelligence (AI) landscape. He shares his venture capital journey and describes Mayfield's unique focus on cognitive plumbing and Cognition-as-a-Service (CaaS), unraveling what these concepts entail. Vijay also offers practical advice for startup founders keen on tapping into the myriad opportunities within the realm of AI. In this episode, you’ll learn: [1:24] From a 10th grade circuits and chips enthusiast to technology executive and founder [5:50] Vijay’s evolution as a venture capital investor fueled by technology curiosity [13:41] Debate about AI being a good or bad thing - it’s not worthy! [15:04] Get these 3 things right for success with an AI-first startup. The non-profit organization that Vijay is passionate about: Upward About Vijay Reddy Vijay Reddy is a partner at Mayfield with over a decade of AI and deeptech investing experience. Prior, Vijay was an investor at Clear Ventures and Intel Capital. He witnessed AI's rise from its inception, and with a founder-first approach, he has invested across the AI stack, backing companies like SambaNova, DataRobot, and BabbleLabs. He began his career as an entrepreneur, co-founding a startup after leaving his PhD program, and has held senior roles at Broadcom and Intel. About Mayfield Mayfield is a Silicon Valley-based venture capital firm that invests in AI-first companies at the Seed, Series A and Series B stages. The firm has raised 20 U.S. funds since 1969, and currently has $3 billion under management. Mayfield takes pride in an investment team that has a founder DNA and operates from a shared set of beliefs and partners for the long term with entrepreneurs pursuing big ideas. Companies in Mayfield’s portfolio include: Outreach, seekout, alchemy, auradine, chemix, crunchbase, Gutsy, LexCheck, OwnID, Qwiet, Vijil, VERSA Networks among others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Philip Edmundson, founder of Corvus Insurance (recently acquired by Travelers), shares the captivating journey of Corvus, from its inception to its recent acquisition. He discusses the company's unique approach to cyber risk and its mission to revolutionize commercial insurance with advanced data science and an AI-driven approach. Philip also discusses opportunities for innovation in insurance, and gives insights into crucial startup matters such as early team building and selecting the right investors. In this episode, you’ll learn: [2:45] From ‘78 to 2024: How has the insurance industry evolved? [5:03] The genesis of Corvus, and reasons for focusing on cyber insurance [13:25] Hiring the first set of team members: lessons and tips for founders [19:20] Notable achievements and challenges faced while building Corvus [26:31] Advice on choosing the right investors for your startup. [33:51] Areas of opportunity for insurtech entrepreneurs to innovate. The non-profit organization that Phil is passionate about: Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology About Philip Edmundson Philip Edmundson is the founder and CEO of the insurtech company Corvus Insurance. With a background in insurance broking and tech entrepreneurship, Philip started Corvus in 2017, aiming to enhance insurance underwriting and assist policyholders in risk reduction through data and technology. Philip emphasizes that insurance should go beyond risk transfer. Before Corvus, he co-founded William Gallagher Associates, acquired by Arthur J Gallagher, and played key roles in industry networks. About Corvus Insurance Corvus Insurance (now a subsidiary of Travelers Insurance) is an insurance company that focuses on cyber risk, loss prevention, and mitigating adverse events using data-driven and AI-powered tools. The Corvus mission is to make the world safer from cyber threats. The company delivers insights to broker partners, helping to make them smarter about the complex risks their clients face. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Tommy Leep, founding partner at Jetstream, shares insights on climate tech investing and nurturing startups for a sustainable future. He delves into climate tech trends, opportunities for startups, and challenges that early-stage investors face (such as greenwashing). Tommy also advises founders on articulating their vision, avoiding the "founders' curse of knowledge" and the importance of sales skills. In this episode, you’ll learn: [2:05] Startups attract people who love to be part of disruptive innovation. [4:53] Finding purpose in setbacks: the story of how Jetstream started [9:59] Trends and opportunities in climate tech investing. [14:03] Building a startup in the climate tech space [19:47] Founders’ curse of knowledge - what is it? How can founders avoid the curse of knowledge? [25:21] There’s something special about a founder who can influence an investor to make subjective decisions. About Tommy Leep Tommy Leep is the founder of Jetstream. He is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and business advisor with experience in startup funding and growth. He held key roles at Floodgate and Rothenberg Ventures before delving into venture capitalism. With experience at Meraki, Inc., Intuit, and Yahoo! Music, he brings a diverse skill set. Tommy advises startups like Around, Payable, and Patreon, and formerly led Rothenberg Ventures' SF office. He's also advised Orchestra Inc. (now part of Dropbox). About Jetstream Jetstream is a venture capital firm investing in pre-seed climate, sustainability, and biodiversity startups. Companies in Jetstream’s startup portfolio include Verdi, Pachama, Windborne Systems, Glacier, Albebo, Lightship, Pathways, Cecil, Wildgrid among others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Eric Sippel of Sippel Farb Family Office delves into the intricacies of investing in emerging managers. Eric outlines his meticulous emerging manager selection criteria, emphasizing his preference for specialists over generalists. He highlights key challenges of identifying good VCs as a Limited Partner (LP), and offers insights into the shifting venture capital landscape. In addition, he discusses the importance of supporting underrepresented venture capitalists for enhanced portfolio returns. In this episode, you’ll learn: [1:33] Venture’s main appeal is the ability to disrupt and create positive change. [4:25] Is it hard to find a good VC to invest in as an LP? Why is that so? [12:54] Eric Sippel’s emerging manager selection rubric; 3S (sourcing, selection, and stewardship/value add) - which is the most important S? [26:18] What happens in the first, second meeting with an emerging manager? What questions should VCs expect from Eric? [33:03] Investing in underrepresented VCs isn’t just ‘good’. It’s critical to having a broader aperture for outsized portfolio returns. The non-profit organization that Eric is passionate about: Goodwill San Francisco Bay About Eric Sippel Eric Sippel invests in emerging managers through his family office, Sippel Farb Family Office. He’s also a philanthropist and current chair of Bay Area Goodwill. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Mikey Kailis, Principal at Counterpart Ventures, as he shares his extraordinary journey from the sun-kissed shores of Perth, Western Australia, to the heart of Silicon Valley's venture capital scene. Mikey discusses how Counterpart Ventures is pioneering a new era of corporate venture capital (CVC) in and outside the Bay Area, and shares his views on the sector’s future. In this episode, you’ll learn: [1:46] From startup competitions organizer to corporate venture capital champion: Mikey Kailis’s story [3:35] Unique dynamics (innovation hotspots, success stories, and common startup challenges) that define Australia's venture ecosystem [8:15] How has the venture capital industry been impacted by the mass exodus of professionals from the Bay Area? [12:42] Counterpart Ventures and its role pioneering new-age corporate venture capital [18:21] Practical examples of the value Counterpart Ventures brings to startups and the corporate venture capital community. The non-profit organizations that Mikey is passionate about: Murdoch Children’s Research Institute About Mikey Kailis Mikey Kailis is a Principal at Counterpart Ventures. Mikey first ventured into journalism in 2011 before pivoting to business management. His expertise in advising startups, particularly in the mining and resources sector, flourished from 2015 to 2018. During this period, he co-created a startup competition across the Asia Pacific, facilitating early-stage funding and Silicon Valley connections. In 2018, Mikey laid the groundwork for Counterpart Ventures, playing a pivotal role in deal sourcing, operations, marketing, and nurturing the corporate venture capital network, Counter Club. His commitment extends to active involvement with founders, offering support in customer introductions, hiring, and go-to-market strategies. About Counterpart Ventures Counterpart Ventures is a Silicon Valley-based life cycle VC fund, focused on investing in authentic relationships and built on implicit trust with its founders. It invests in B2B SaaS, mobility, and marketplace technologies that target nontrivial problems or fill missing gaps in large markets. Its portfolio companies include Dori, Upflowy, Remofirst, Cloudbeds, VComply, Intricately among others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Aakar Vachhani, Managing Partner at Fairview Capital Partners, explores the crucial role of limited partners (LPs) in the venture capital ecosystem. He delves into the distinctive characteristics of venture capital as an asset class and sheds light on Fairview's role as a fund of funds, culture, investment strategy, areas of focus, and bullish stance on emerging managers. Additionally, he shares insights on trending topics that could influence the future of the venture capital industry. In this episode, you’ll learn: [6:15] Fairview employs a dual investment strategy to cover both established and niche areas in private markets. [13:02] New, appropriately sized VC firms focusing on specific stages have the opportunity to generate significant returns. [16:53] The venture capital landscape has undergone substantial changes in the past 30 years. [27:00] Technology's pervasive influence creates vast opportunities for disruption across various industries. [32:34] Advice for investors, especially emerging managers: Be a great investor and entrepreneur; value collaboration and sharing best practices with peers. The non-profit organizations that Aakar is passionate about: San Francisco Achievers, New Breath Foundation About Aakar Vachhani Aakar Vachhani is a Managing Partner at Fairview Capital Partners and a key member of Fairview’s investment committee. In this role, he actively engages in research, due diligence, investment monitoring, and business development for Fairview's venture capital and private equity portfolios, as well as direct co-investment initiatives. He established and leads Fairview's San Francisco office. Before joining Fairview, Aakar worked with Cambridge Associates, a prominent investment advisor catering to foundations, endowments, and corporate/government entities. Earlier in his career, he gained experience at MK Capital, a multi-stage venture capital firm with a specific sector focus on software and cloud services. About Fairview Capital Partners Fairview Capital Partners is a Connecticut-based investment management firm specializing in cutting-edge segments of the private markets. Founded nearly three decades ago, Fairview has evolved into one of the largest minority-owned investment firms in the United States, managing over $10 billion in fund capitalization. With a clientele including leading foundations, endowments, pension plans, and family offices, Fairview Capital's innovative and inclusive approach, coupled with its entrepreneurial spirit, continues to make an indelible mark on the venture capital industry. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Lorenzo Thione, Managing Director at Gaingels, shares his journey from Italy to the U.S. and the pivotal life event inspiring his advocacy for inclusive venture capital representation. He delves into Gaingels' investment philosophy, emphasizing its focus on supporting diverse founders and investors. Lorenzo also offers insights for today's founders, spotlighting game-changing technologies like artificial intelligence. In this episode, you’ll learn: [3:50] Underrepresented communities of founders and investors significantly influence the growth of the venture capital ecosystem [9:26] How Gaingels provides universal access to the wealth creation potential of venture capital [16:59] Cloud technology revolutionized starting companies in the last decade, while artificial intelligence is the current game changer [24:09] Principles behind Gaingels investment approach [28:53] Why founders should establish relationships with investors before pitching The non-profit organization that Lorenzo is passionate about: StartOut About Lorenzo Thione Lorenzo Thione is a Managing Director at Gaingels. He is a serial entrepreneur and investor, known for his diverse contributions at the intersection of technology, art, commerce, and social impact. A Tony Award-winning Broadway producer for "Hadestown" and co-creator/producer of the George Takei musical "Allegiance," he also directed/produced its record-breaking 2016 film. Lorenzo co-founded Social Edge and previously co-founded Powerset (acquired by Microsoft in 2008) and Artify. A prominent LGBT advocate, he co-founded and is board chair emeritus of StartOut, a leading non-profit fostering LGBT entrepreneurship. Lorenzo is an active investor, board member, and advisor to numerous startups. About Gaingels Gaingels is a Vermont-based LGBTQIA+/Allies private investment syndicate, dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion within the venture capital ecosystem. With over 2000 individual members, including accredited investors, Gaingels actively supports innovation economy companies committed to building diverse and inclusive leadership. Their unique approach involves members contributing beyond financial investment, providing introductions, advice, and connections to portfolio companies. Some of the companies it has backed include: Shimmer, Leap AI, Base Operations, Overplay, Abbey Cross, Zette, Magma, Cambium, kinship among others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Anne Dwane, a Partner at Village Global, shares her commitment to supporting amazing entrepreneurs working on big ideas. Leveraging her background as an entrepreneur-turned-investor, Anne underscores the significance of establishing networks early and explores the feasibility of launching a company during economic downturns. Moreover, she sheds light on the dynamic role of venture capitalists, particularly within a VC industry confronted by distinctive challenges. In this episode, you’ll learn: [2:00] Invest in your networks early. [5:54] Starting a company during an economic downturn: is it a good idea? [9:43] The multifaceted role of VCs as super connectors and coaches. [16:20] The best founders identify opportunities in the current world and articulate a clear vision of how to navigate toward a better future. [25:34] Founders deserve investors who are wholeheartedly committed and thoroughly convinced of the startup's potential for success. The non-profit organization that Anne is passionate about: UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital's Center for Child Protection About Anne Dwane Anne Dwane, Co-Founder & Partner at Village Global, has a wealth of experience with a background that includes tech company founding, venture-backed CEO positions, and executive roles in public companies. Over her 20-year career, she has successfully managed P & Ls and excelled in scaling operations from startup to IPO and building effective teams. Notable achievements include leading companies to successful acquisitions by Monster and Chegg, as well as managing P&L responsibilities for Chegg before and after its IPO (valued at $1 billion). Currently, she serves on the board of Harvard Business Publishing. About Village Global Village Global is a Silicon Valley-based venture capital firm dedicated to supporting amazing entrepreneurs working on big ideas. With a typical investment range of $250,000 to $1.5 million, the firm goes beyond funding, offering founders access to a vibrant community, expert guidance, and transformative introductions. Chaired by Reid Hoffman and backed by esteemed visionaries such as Jeff Bezos, Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Anne Wojcicki, and more, Village Global has an impressive portfolio that includes companies like Excarta, Simply Homes, Juno, Evisort, Siena AI, Canopy, Risk Ledger, OpenCover, Boost Capital, Atmosfy, among others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Patrick Mork, founder and CEO of LEAP, shares his career journey and underscores the pivotal role of coaching in nurturing founder success. Drawing from his extensive leadership and coaching experience, Patrick imparts valuable advice to founders and leaders, addressing the intricacies of entrepreneurship and leadership. Topics covered include professional development, navigating career maneuvers, building a purpose-driven business, and prioritizing company culture. He also offers insights on finding the most suitable coach. In this episode, you’ll learn: [2:18] Patrick’s real-life story of maneuvering the challenges of an inevitable career change. [7:19] Unexpected paths can lead to entrepreneurial success. [10:10] True fulfillment in business comes from building a purpose-driven business that addresses societal challenges. [15:57] What's the difference between therapy and coaching? [19:20] How coaching helps with self-awareness, self-confidence, psychological safety and communication. [26:03] Whatever the size of the company, company culture should never be an afterthought. The non-profit organization that Patrick is passionate about: Cousteau About Patrick Mork Patrick Mork is the founder and CEO of LEAP. He is a startup CEO coach, motivational speaker and author of Step Back and LEAP. An ex-Google executive and serial tech maven, Patrick previously worked for a renowned company in Silicon Valley as Chief Marketing Officer. During his tenure at Google, he built and led the marketing team that created and launched the Google play brand. He founded LEAP as a way of helping early-stage companies to reinvent themselves by creating cultures that empower their employees to do work that gives them meaning and purpose. About LEAP LEAP is a Chile-based cultural transformation company that helps leaders build company cultures of meaning and purpose. Prior to starting LEAP he spent over 20 years in various marketing leadership roles in several high profile technology startups and at Google where he built and led the marketing team that launched the Google Play brand. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Justin Dyer, Chief Investment Officer at AWM Capital, shares insights into AWM's venture strategies and human-centered approach to athlete wealth management. He talks about the critical role of networks in VC and gives useful tips for choosing the right limited partner. In this episode, you’ll learn: [6:13] AWM Capital's human-centered approach to athlete wealth management [9:14] Venture capital's role in family office asset allocation [16:15] The pivotal role of networks in venture capital [19:36] Assessing venture funds, navigating both the easy and challenging aspects [28:13] Tips on selecting the best Limited Partner for your company The non-profit organization that Justin is passionate about: RAISE Global About Justin Dyer Justin Dyer is the Chief Investment Officer, Director of Wealth Strategy, and Partner at AWM Capital. He leads AWM’s investment committee, research teams and investment operations. He has served on LP Advisory Committees and has been on the selection committee for the RAISE Global Conference, which is the premier community for forward-thinking venture capital investors and emerging fund managers. About AWM Capital AWM Capital is a multi-family office serving professional athletes, entrepreneurs, and business professionals, with a deeply-rooted belief that wealth goes beyond the financial. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Steve Pretre, partner at World Innovation Lab (WiL), takes us on an extraordinary journey from his upbringing in Silicon Valley to becoming a key player in the insurtech and venture capital worlds. He shares the thrilling journey of starting Metromile and leading it through the IPO stage, highlighting some of the biggest challenges of starting an insurtech startup. Steve also dispels the skepticism about corporate venture capital firms (CVCs). In this episode, you’ll learn: [3:47] Discover invaluable lessons from the pioneers of the insurtech industry [7:40] The story of Metromile: “I was excited and naive enough to think that we could pull that off.” - Steve Pretre [15:43] Early-stage investing isn't just about funds but also about providing strategic support to startups [22:40] Insights into corporate venture capital and why alignment of goals is paramount [27:18] The importance of staying true to your business vision and not blindly following VC advice The non-profit organization that Steve is passionate about: Woodside Wildebeests About Steve Pretre Steve Pretre is a partner at World Innovation Lab. He is a veteran of multiple successful startups and has deep operating experience across product development, marketing, and strategic planning. Prior to joining World Innovation Lab, Steve was the co-founder and CEO of Metromile, an early innovator that paved the path for the current wave of insurance startups. He also held executive roles at Asurion, leading their mobile applications business unit as the company grew. About World Innovation Lab World Innovation Lab is a venture capital fund supported by various governments and global corporations. WiL invests in companies looking to expand into new markets. They assist US startups in entering Japan and Asia and support Japanese startups in global expansion. Notable recent direct investments include Algolia, Asana, Automation Anywhere, Auth0, DataRobot, Kong, Mercari, MURAL, TransferWise, and Unqork. WiL also supports established and emerging venture funds. Additionally, they collaborate with corporate investors to enhance innovation through new business creation, startup partnerships, and cultural change. WiL acts as a bridge between startups and corporations in key innovation hubs globally, initially focusing on Japan and the US. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Miles Dieffenbach, Director of Investments at Carnegie Mellon University Endowment, offers valuable insights, personal anecdotes, and perspectives on the fundamentals of venture capital. He covers topics such as GP commit, navigating the denominator effect, and the broader economic trends that impact the venture capital industry. In this episode, you’ll learn: [4:51] How venture capital drives innovation and the crucial role of limited partners (LPs) in this process [14:25] Factors LPs consider when selecting fund managers [22:05] Identifying positive signs of fund growth and red flags that LPs watch out for [27:56] The evolving role of allocators in the future of venture capital and how founders need to rethink what capital and VC relationships mean to them [32:28] Dive into the ongoing debate surrounding GP commit The non-profit organization that Miles is passionate about: CMU About Miles Dieffenbach Miles Dieffenbach is the Director of Investment at Carnegie Mellon University Endowment He manages the $3.6 billion endowment across a comprehensive global portfolio of all major asset classes, including private equity, venture capital, public equities, hedge funds, real estate, distressed opportunities and fixed income. Fun fact: Miles initially planned on being a professional footballer. He served as Penn State Varsity Football Captain and had a short stint as offensive guard at Pittsburgh Steelers. He jokingly remarks that he feels like he’s playing a similar role as the director of investments. About Carnegie Mellon University Endowment Carnegie Mellon University Endowment is an endowment based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The fund provides a permanent source of income to support the university's missions. It also provides a stable, predictable, and growing stream of resources for current use in achieving the academic goals of the university, while preserving the purchasing power of the fund for future generations. The investment office evaluates, selects, and monitors current and prospective investments in which to allocate the university's endowment assets. The fund’s assets are managed by the executive management team. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Aram Verdiyan, Partner at Accolade Partners, offers a comprehensive exploration of the LP landscape and the strategies that drive success in the world of venture capital. Aram emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with VCs and sheds light on how general partners (GPs) think. He also discusses his views on returns generation, comparing concentrated and diversified investments. In this episode, you’ll learn: [4:07] Accolade’s contrarian portfolio building: leading with concentrated investments [13:06] Why does it take so long to invest in a VC fund? [22:19] Most common questions from General Partners to LPs [24:32] Fund size should be the output, not an input [29:39] Blockchain investing versus traditional investing [34:05] Focusing on real valuations will make venture capital better. The non-profit organization that Aram is passionate about: AGBU About Aram Verdiyan Aram Verdiyan is a partner at Accolade Partners. Previously, he worked on the investment team at Andreessen Horowitz and before that in BD, sales and marketing at Aviatrix, a cloud native enterprise software company. About Accolade Partners Accolade Partners is a DC-based fund of funds organized primarily to invest in a diversified portfolio of top-tier venture capital and growth equity funds principally investing in technology and healthcare. Accolade’s investment focus is the United States. The fund of funds has invested in many VC firms including Equal Ventures, Zeev Ventures, Wonder Ventures, Notation Capital, Mucker Capital among others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Theresa Blissing, founder of Accelerating Insurance and the Asia InsurTech Podcast, delves into the transformative potential of emerging technologies in the insurance sector. She offers valuable insights for founders aiming for success in the insurance industry, irrespective of their operational geography. Additionally, she sheds light on noteworthy trends, opportunities, and challenges facing insurtech startups, with a particular focus on the dynamic landscape in Asia. In this episode, you’ll learn: [1:54] Getting into insurance - Theresa Blissing’s life-changing mission [5:43] Insurance is everywhere [8:27] Future of Insurance in Asia: Diversity and Nuances [21:33] Stay on top of how technology is helping reshape the insurance industry on the Asia InsurTech Podcast. The non-profit organization that Theresa is passionate about: Girl Gone International About Theresa Blissing Theresa Blissing is the founder and director of Accelerating Insurance, an innovation advisory firm in Southeast Asia. With a decade at multinational insurer Generali and a leadership role at German consultancy Detecon, she brings extensive industry experience. Theresa is also a trailblazer in big data and analytics within insurance, contributing to some of the first academic studies on its adoption in Southeast Asia. As a thought leader, Theresa founded the Asia InsurTech Podcast and InsurTech Mentors, creating unique platforms for industry experts across Asia. Her commitment to knowledge sharing extends to speaking engagements at conferences like Asia Insurance Review, Techsauce, Uniglobal, and InsurTech Insight, as well as lecturing at institutions such as the Singapore College of Insurance and Thammasat University. About Accelerating Insurance Accelerating Insurance is an insurance consultancy that navigates the insurance landscape, helping insurers cut through the noise, understand emerging trends, and demystify technology. By closely monitoring InsurTech developments and sharing success stories, Accelerating Insurance contributes to reshaping the future of insurance, advocating for meaningful change in both technology and the people driving innovation. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Chris Douvos, founder of Ahoy Capital, discusses venture capital investing as a limited partner (LP). He explores how venture capital fits in an investor's portfolio, shares his investment philosophy, and reveals how he identifies nonconformist VC investors, especially emerging managers. Chris also reflects on recent VC landscape changes and offers insights to better the industry's future and its potential impact. In this episode, you’ll learn: [2:28] Pre-2005 venture capital: An enigma mastered by just a few hundred experts. What's evolved? [9:03] Contrarian view: Concentrated VC portfolios triumph over diversification. [13:15] Ahoy's portfolio: Home to unique ventures. [18:26] Nurturing LP/VC connections. [23:47] Standing out in the world of 'chaos capital' as a VC investor The non-profit organization that Chris is passionate about: Habitat for Humanity About Chris Douvos Chris Douvos founded Ahoy Capital in 2018 with a focus on building a boutique firm committed to investment excellence and fostering strong partnerships. With nearly two decades of experience in venture capital, Chris is a pioneering figure in the micro-VC movement. He excels in identifying and nurturing emerging funds, facilitating transparent dialogue between capital providers and consumers, and shares his insights through his blog, SuperLP. His expertise is not limited to capital; he is also sought after for his advisory role on numerous manager's boards. Chris is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and business schools, and he serves as a valuable resource for tech and business media. Before establishing Ahoy Capital, Chris led investment efforts at Venture Investment Associates and The Investment Fund for Foundations. He honed his skills in illiquid investing while working with Princeton University's endowment and started his career as a strategy consultant at Monitor Company. Fun Fact: Chris is known for his exclusive brick oven pizza parties, attended by LPs, GPs, and entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley. About Ahoy Capital Ahoy Capital is a Silicon Valley-based boutique fund manager that scours the innovation ecosystem in search of attractive risk-adjusted returns while maintaining a high level of engagement with its Partners. Focusing on investments in both early-stage venture capital funds and start-up companies, Ahoy Capital seeks outstanding opportunities in the application of emerging disruptive technologies, as well as the development of nascent frontier ideas that will continue to have profound effects on the ways in which people live and work. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Priya Ramachandran, founder and managing partner at Foster Ventures, recounts her remarkable odyssey from the tech world in India to her venture capital journey in the heart of Silicon Valley. She candidly discusses her evolution as a VC, starting as an angel investor, and passionately elaborates on the core values and principles that underpin the foundation of Foster Ventures. Priya also expresses her enthusiasm for the imminent surge of innovation poised to emerge from the dynamic cross-border US-India startup ecosystem. In this episode, you’ll learn: [2:42] The advantages and responsibilities of angel investing [9:25] Key considerations when choosing an investor in the pre-seed to seed stage [14:27] The path to achieving startup success: crafting a precise problem statement, building with integrity, and maintaining agility during implementation. [18:58] Founder's dilemma: balancing speed with the importance of doing things right [27:19] Fostering a robust US-India startup ecosystem will take true community building The non-profit organization that Priya is passionate about: SaaSBOOMi About Priya Ramachandran Priya Priya Ramachandran is the Founder and Managing Partner of Foster Ventures. As an Operator and a GTM expert, Priya works with cross-border companies and helps entrepreneurs with product market fit, international market entry advice and introductions. Before starting Foster Ventures, Priya was with BoldCap, BetterCloud, Coupa, Intel Security and LogiGear Corporation leading various strategic operational roles with a focus on Product Strategy, Customer Strategy & Adoption and Customer Success. Priya is also an active mentor at SaaSBOOMi with a focus on enabling and empowering cross-border founders. About Foster Ventures Foster Ventures is a Silicon Valley-based early-stage venture capital firm with a focus on B2B Enterprise SaaS. As an operator-led VC, Foster works with early-stage startups, supporting founders building global products. Portfolio companies include vitrina, rocketlane, atomicwork, lyric, SimpliContract among others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode.

Eric Ver Ploeg, founding partner of Tunitas Ventures, talks about how his seed-stage venture firm is helping entrepreneurs raise the best possible Series A. He shares his inspiring career journey into venture capital and expounds on the three key things he looks for in a potential investment. Additionally, he offers insights into the transformative shifts within the venture capital landscape, shedding light on the evolution of his personal viewpoints. In this episode, you’ll learn: [3:24] One of the hardest and most aspirationally awesome things that a human can do is start a company. [7:16] Even an experienced entrepreneur needs help raising series A. [10:54] What does it mean to create a category-defining company today? [16:00] Back to the basics: defensibility and unit economics [23:30] How has the venture capital industry evolved and how have your perspectives changed? The non-profit organization that Eric is passionate about: StartX About Eric Ver Ploeg Eric Ver Ploeg is a founding partner at Tunitas Ventures, building on a successful angel investment track record. Eric is a 2x venture-backed startup founder, where he raised rounds from Kleiner Perkins, Mayfield, JMI Equity, VantagePoint, and others. He spent 11 years as Partner at large multi-stage venture firms, where he was a board member of 25+ startups, and had a vote in ~500 Series A to Pre-IPO investment decisions leading to ~130 investments. About Tunitas Ventures Tunitas Ventures is a Silicon Valley-based seed- stage venture firm that focuses on helping companies raise future Series A from the best possible investor. The firm invests across all technology sectors (except Healthcare/Life Sciences). Portfolio companies include InspectHOA, blotout, GO2, Via.Delivery, among others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode. Follow Us: Twitter | Linkedin | Instagram | Facebook