Brutal truth: It’s not your deck. It’s your direction. In this episode of the Built Different Podcast, investor and startup advisor Sara Hood breaks down the 7 unfiltered reasons your startup isn’t getting funded — and how to course correct before your next pitch. If you've been getting "No" from VCs, this video is your wake-up call. Sara has helped founders raise millions in venture capital, sits on over 10 advisory boards, and invests in the most underfunded demographic in the country. She doesn’t sugarcoat—and that’s exactly why you need to hear this. 💥 Don’t just build a business. Build DIFFERENT. 👇 Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: It’s not the market. It’s YOU. 00:25 – Why VCs don’t invest in small ideas 01:10 – If your TAM doesn’t scream “category leader,” you’re already out 01:35 – VC is not a blessing—it’s a bet 02:21 – You’re selling an exit, not your effort 02:50 – Great businesses ≠ VC-backable businesses 03:14 – Why lifestyle brands don’t belong in the VC lane 03:45 – Speed = credibility (how VCs assess momentum) 04:10 – YC’s rule: “Build fast. Launch faster.” 04:32 – Are you pitching a product or a vision? 04:55 – Don’t tell me what it does—show me what changes when you win 05:23 – Timing kills more deals than bad ideas 05:45 – Fundraising is like surfing: catch the wave or miss it completely 06:10 – Founder-Market Fit: The unspoken edge 06:36 – Final thoughts + what to do next ✅ Subscribe for more hard truths, growth strategies, and founder playbooks from the Built Different Podcast.