In this episode, Mat Sherman sits down with Stéphane Nasser to explore the evolution of OpenVC, a platform bridging the gap between founders and investors. Steph shares his personal journey—from living in Portugal to China—and reflects on the challenges of fundraising and the critical role of founder education and support. Together, they dive into the startup ecosystem, discussing the importance of screening submissions, transferable skills, and the emotional and psychological dimensions of entrepreneurship. They also tackle the reality of startup success, the need to build personal wealth before seeking venture capital, and the often-overlooked nuances of early-stage investing. Finally, the conversation sheds light on the role of fundraising advisors, offering insights into due diligence and caution for founders navigating this space. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the startup journey and the intricacies of venture funding.