In this compelling episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris welcome Matt Curtolo, an experienced private markets investor and advisor, and Joseph Alalou, co-founder and general partner of Daring Ventures. Together, they dive into the evolving landscape of emerging managers and micro venture funds, offering firsthand perspectives on how smaller funds are carving a niche in today’s competitive venture ecosystem.
Matt shares his journey through two decades of managing billions across venture, private equity, and real estate, and discusses how emerging managers can sharpen their strategy, positioning, and fundraising efforts to succeed in a crowded market. Joseph brings a unique and inspiring story from washing cars and community college to leading a VC fund focused on diverse, underdog founders with domain expertise and conviction bias.
The conversation explores the definition and dynamics of micro VCs, the importance of authenticity and understanding one’s “right to win,” and how these smaller funds differentiate themselves by moving beyond consensus deals to uncover unique alpha-generating opportunities. They discuss the challenges of fundraising in today’s environment, including the long timelines, the critical role of operational rigor, and how early closings can build momentum and market credibility.
Matt and Joseph also tackle how AI is reshaping fundraising and fund operations, emphasizing that technology is a critical tool but human intuition, relationships, and expertise remain irreplaceable. They reflect on the maturation of the venture ecosystem, the growing interest from large funds in emerging managers, and the fundamentally relational nature of VC investing.
Listeners will gain practical advice and encouragement on navigating the complexities of emerging fund management, fundraising strategy, and embracing the future of venture capital amid rapid technological change. This episode is essential for aspiring fund managers, limited partners, and anyone interested in the future of micro VC and emerging manager innovation.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, host Peter Harris sits down with Rex Salisbury, solo GP of Cambrian and former fintech partner at Andreessen Horowitz, for an in-depth conversation about the ongoing transformation of financial services. Rex shares his unique journey from investment banking to leading one of fintech’s most dynamic pre-seed and seed funds, explaining how decades of inefficiency in banking have finally given way to a wave of disruptive innovation.
The discussion explores recent shifts in the fintech landscape, highlighting how new fintech companies, once dismissed as serving only niche or low-value customers, are now directly competing with and winning market share from the largest legacy banks. Rex points to the rise of digital-first platforms like Robinhood and Wealthfront, which started by serving overlooked users but have evolved into sophisticated competitors for the millennial and Gen Z wealth transfer.
Peter and Rex examine why B2B fintech is an especially powerful force, with vertical software companies like Toast integrating lending, payroll, and banking into a single platform that businesses can’t imagine leaving for traditional banks. Rex also tackles the myth of banks’ cost-of-capital advantage, arguing that technology and changing consumer expectations are steadily eroding long-held bank moats.
Beyond consumer trends, the episode ventures into the investment landscape, with Rex sharing lessons from recent Cambrian investments, such as companies revolutionizing transfer agents and simplifying business shutdowns. The conversation also addresses the role of crypto and stablecoins in reshaping payment and banking infrastructure, where Rex differentiates between international and U.S. use cases but remains optimistic about crypto’s role as a catalyst for industry change.
Rex closes with actionable advice for aspiring founders and operators: seek out dense talent networks, work in growth-stage companies, and always surround yourself with people who teach you. The episode captures the underlying message that, as technology, business models, and capital flows shift, fintech is only just beginning to threaten incumbents and capture its share of the financial future.
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In this thought-provoking episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris explore the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence and its far-reaching implications for economics, labor, and opportunities. The conversation opens with Peter reflecting on his 16 years of VC experience and the unprecedented speed at which generative AI is impacting every industry, likening the current era to previous technological shifts such as the rise of the internet, mobile, and SaaS, but at a much more accelerated, all-encompassing pace.
Jon shares candid anxieties and perspectives from the founder’s side, debating whether society is overestimating the short-term disruption of AI while underestimating its long-term impact. The hosts explore parallels between AI’s rise and earlier workforce interventions, such as calculators and spreadsheets, suggesting that while some jobs will evolve or disappear, new types of roles and vast opportunities will emerge.
They debate the looming questions around AGI, the shifting utility of STEM degrees, and the growing importance of learning how to think critically and adapt. The discussion delves into:
The episode concludes with tangible advice for the next generation: develop deep, critical, interdisciplinary knowledge and be prepared to leverage rather than be replaced by AI. Jon and Peter encourage listeners to reflect on how they’ll stay relevant, creative, and entrepreneurial in a world where opportunity and risk are amplifying in tandem. This episode is essential listening for anyone curious about the future of work, education, and value creation in an AI-driven era.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris reflect on key lessons from recent interviews with entrepreneurs, medical innovators, and content creators, turning their focus inward for a wide-ranging discussion on the evolving role of influencers, authenticity, and attention in today’s business world.
Jon and Peter kick off by revisiting the intersection of health technology and consumer empowerment, discussing the surge in wearables, at-home diagnostics, and consumer-led health journeys. They probe why younger generations are more invested in their health, attributing this trend to social visibility, the desire for authenticity in a digital age, and the rapid acceptance of medical advances, such as GLP-1 treatments for weight loss.
The conversation shifts dynamically to the creator economy, exploring how the most effective marketing and brand-building today often comes from content creators and influencers with passionate, loyal audiences. Peter highlights the unique value these creators bring, citing the example of a tech startup that attributes much of its rapid growth to a co-founder’s expertise in cultivating online engagement, rather than traditional marketing.
Jon and Peter debate whether every CEO now needs to be a content creator and ponder the future of influencer-led businesses. They analyze the success of influencer-driven brands like Hailey Bieber’s, dissecting how authentic involvement can drive enormous margins and corporate valuation, while also questioning the long-term challenges when founders sell to larger corporations.
They conclude with practical insights for founders: thoughtfully consider influencer involvement as part of founding teams, seek authenticity over mere endorsements, and recognize that in a noisy digital world, capturing and sustaining attention may be the single most valuable asset for any business.
This episode offers a forward-looking perspective on how authenticity, strategic influencer partnerships, and the ability to cut through digital noise are reshaping not just marketing but the very foundations of building and scaling a modern brand.
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In this forward-thinking episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris are joined by two leaders shaping the future of healthcare: Ryan Morley, Partner at Springside, and Dr. Jon Lensing, co-founder and CEO of Open Loop. Together, they dive deep into the rapidly evolving landscape of telehealth and digital health, exploring how technology, AI, and new business models are transforming care delivery.
Dr. Lensing shares his journey from rural medicine to building Open Loop, a telehealth infrastructure company designed to bring healthcare directly to where people live, work, and play. He explains how Open Loop is enabling non-traditional platforms—like gyms, dating apps, and retail stores—to offer convenient, on-demand healthcare services, fundamentally shifting care from hospitals and clinics to everyday environments.
Ryan Morley and Peter Harris discuss the investment opportunities emerging from this shift, highlighting how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated telehealth adoption and how the next wave of innovation will focus on infrastructure, personalization, and value-based care. The conversation explores the power of AI in healthcare, from automating clinical documentation and patient intake to improving diagnoses and care coordination. Dr. Lensing details how Open Loop leverages AI to drastically reduce clinician workload and enhance patient engagement, while Ryan emphasizes the need for regulatory evolution to unlock the full potential of autonomous and AI-driven care.
The group also examines the broader determinants of health, noting that 85% of health outcomes are tied to lifestyle and environment rather than traditional medical care. They discuss how digital health can proactively address chronic disease, expand access, and empower consumers to take charge of their well-being.
Packed with insights on infrastructure, investment trends, regulatory hurdles, and the promise of AI, this episode is a must-listen for founders, investors, and anyone interested in the future of healthcare.
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In this dynamic episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris are joined by Tim Holladay, investor and co-founder of Space Station Investments, and Peter Hollens, renowned vocalist and innovative content creator. Together, they explore the evolving intersection of content creation, AI, and investment in the digital age.
The conversation kicks off with Peter Hollens sharing his unique perspective as both a world-class musician and a forward-thinking entrepreneur deeply engaged with AI’s impact on creativity. Tim Holladay highlights their collaborative investment approach, focusing on early-stage consumer companies and the growing role of creators in startup ecosystems.
Jon and Peter dive into the challenges and opportunities AI presents for content creators, from accelerating production to the flood of AI-generated content saturating digital platforms. Peter Hollens discusses how authentic human connection and parasocial relationships remain invaluable even as AI blurs the lines between human and machine-generated content. He shares fascinating examples of using AI tools to enhance creativity and even assist his autistic child, illustrating AI’s potential beyond entertainment.
The episode also tackles the evolving landscape of influencer marketing, the value creators bring as low-cost, high-ROI partners, and the shifting dynamics between brands and digital creators versus traditional influencers. The hosts and guests debate how AI-driven content might reshape attention economies, audience engagement, and the future of long-form versus short-form content.
Throughout the lively discussion, Peter Hollens recounts his challenging experience addressing AI skepticism at a recent commencement speech, underscoring the cultural divide around AI adoption. Tim and the hosts reflect on how investors and creators alike must embrace AI tools to stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment.
This episode offers a rich, nuanced exploration of how AI is transforming content creation, investment, and the creator economy, providing valuable insights for founders, investors, creators, and anyone curious about the future of digital media.
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In this insightful episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris are joined by Max Marchione, CEO and co-founder of Superpower.com, and Dr. John Dayton, MD, MBA, a healthcare innovator and venture partner. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of health technology and data intelligence, focusing on how cutting-edge biomarker analysis and AI-driven insights are reshaping disease prevention and personalized care.
Max shares his vision of building a healthcare system centered on enhancing human capability and longevity, emphasizing the shift from reactive treatment to proactive prevention. Dr. Dayton brings his frontline experience as an emergency physician and Stanford faculty member to discuss the current challenges in healthcare, including fragmented data systems and the need for interoperability to enable comprehensive, predictive care.
The conversation dives deep into the limitations of traditional single biomarker approaches and the promise of aggregating multiple data points into comprehensive health scores, like the Superpower Score. They discuss the critical role of omics data, continuous wearable monitoring, and multimodal AI in advancing personalized medicine. Dr. Dayton highlights the importance of integrating clinical data with remote patient monitoring to improve patient outcomes and reduce hospitalizations.
Throughout the episode, the guests and hosts examine the barriers to adopting these innovations within existing healthcare reimbursement models and the potential for value-based care to drive systemic change. This episode offers a forward-thinking perspective on how technology, data, and innovation converge to create a more effective, patient-centered healthcare future.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris analyze how recent government policy shifts and economic changes are influencing the venture capital landscape and broader economy. They discuss the effects of tariffs, government spending, and regulatory uncertainty on startups and investors, highlighting concerns from founders and VCs alike about how these factors impact funding availability and business operations.
Jon and Peter explore the challenges faced by companies reliant on government contracts and grants, noting how freezes and delays can threaten runway and survival. They also examine the broader fiscal picture, including rising national debt, the potential consequences of inflation and tax hikes, and the complex balancing act governments face in cutting spending without triggering recession.
The conversation touches on real-world examples, such as illustrating how radical change can sometimes be necessary to drive growth amid adversity. The hosts debate the need for significant budget cuts versus gradual reductions and discuss the antiquated state of government technology and defense spending, considering opportunities for modernization and efficiency.
Finally, Jon and Peter share their predictions for the year ahead, weighing the short-term impacts of tariffs and the likelihood of economic downturns against the resilience of the market and potential for innovation. This episode offers a nuanced perspective on how government actions ripple through the venture capital ecosystem and what founders and investors can expect in a shifting economic environment.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris dive into one of the most critical yet often overlooked topics for startup founders: the questions you should be asking venture capitalists before taking their money. Drawing on their extensive experience, Jon and Peter discuss common pitfalls that founders face when negotiating deals, including the hidden terms in contracts that can come back to haunt a company years later.
The hosts stress the importance of doing deep due diligence on potential investors—not just their financial terms, but their character and how they handle failure. They emphasize asking tough questions about how a VC firm supports struggling portfolio companies and their philosophy on valuation and terms. Jon and Peter also reflect on the delicate balance founders must strike in pushing back while maintaining a constructive relationship.
Listeners will gain valuable insight into the realities of venture capital beyond the pitch room—the importance of understanding who is investing in your company, how VCs behave when things go wrong, and how to spot red flags early. This episode is an essential guide for founders preparing to raise capital and aiming to build a strong, lasting partnership with investors.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris delve into the complex world of valuations, exploring both the theoretical foundations and the practical realities faced by entrepreneurs and venture capitalists. Peter begins by discussing the fundamental principles of valuation, using the metaphor of a "Golden Goose" to illustrate how discounted cash flow models are used to estimate a company's worth based on future cash flows.
The conversation shifts to the venture capital landscape, where Peter notes that traditional valuation methods often don't apply due to the high-risk nature of early-stage startups. He emphasizes that while these models provide a theoretical framework, the actual process of valuation in venture capital is heavily influenced by negotiation and market dynamics.
Jon counters with a more pragmatic view, suggesting that valuations are often inflated and less relevant than other terms in a deal. He shares examples of companies being valued at significantly higher amounts than their true worth, highlighting how VCs may use these valuations to secure favorable terms.
Throughout the episode, the hosts discuss how the market has evolved, with valuations increasing dramatically over the past decade. They reflect on past deals, noting that what was once considered acceptable is now viewed as predatory, illustrating the shift in market norms and expectations.
The conversation concludes with insights into the challenges of raising capital, emphasizing that sophisticated entrepreneurs are better equipped to navigate complex deals and avoid unfavorable terms. Overall, this episode provides a nuanced exploration of valuations from both the VC and founder's perspective, offering valuable insights into the art and science of negotiating value in the venture capital world.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris tackle a crucial transition point for early-stage startups: making those first key hires. The discussion is sparked by a founder seeking advice on how to shift from simply building a product with a small team to building a structured company with employees.
Peter recounts his conversation with the founder and the resources he recommended: the books "Buy Back Your Time" and "Who Not How." The conversation emphasizes the importance of valuing a founder's time and creating mechanisms for delegation and self-management as the team grows. Jon and Peter then debate the founder's sentiment that "hiring is evil," considering the financial strain and potential pitfalls of premature scaling.
The hosts delve into actionable strategies for making smart hiring decisions. Jon shares his philosophy of hiring only when absolutely necessary and prioritizing individuals with whom you've previously worked. He also describes a method for quantifying the potential value of new hires by assessing the opportunity cost of current challenges. Peter discusses balancing founder-led efforts with building a functional team, including strategies for incentivizing tactical execution over strategic planning.
The episode covers tactics for identifying generalists versus specialists, the importance of clear communication and expectations, and alternative approaches like "hiring twice" to create a competitive environment. It also addresses the challenges of transitioning from founder-led sales to a structured sales organization, emphasizing the importance of finding individuals who can perform at 70% of the founder's level.
Overall, this episode provides founders with valuable insights and practical advice on navigating the complexities of early-stage hiring, offering guidance on building a strong team while avoiding common pitfalls.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris make their predictions for the venture capital landscape in 2025. The conversation kicks off with a discussion about the current wave of AI-focused startups, with both hosts agreeing that many of these companies, particularly those building "AI wrappers" without unique data sets, will face challenges as larger players and incumbents integrate AI into their existing products and services. Jon predicts a "burned over land" scenario for many of these startups.
The hosts then shift to a discussion about the potential impact of political changes on the M&A market. Jon predicts that Lina Khan will leave the FTC, leading to a more open M&A environment and increased liquidity. Peter expresses cautious optimism, suggesting that while a change in administration could ease antitrust scrutiny, other factors may still play a role. They explore the potential for large tech companies like Meta and those aligned with AWS and Google Cloud to make significant acquisitions.
The conversation also touches on the IPO market, with both hosts anticipating increased activity in the coming years. Jon believes it will take longer for the IPO market to warm up, influenced by the upcoming election and the time required for companies to prepare for an IPO. Peter anticipates a faster turnaround, expecting increased liquidity and confidence to drive more deals.
They also discuss the trend of VCs striving to add value beyond simply writing a check, with Jon skeptical of VCs offering outdated advice. Peter acknowledges this pitfall but defends the value of guidance from VCs in areas such as valuation and fundraising strategy. The episode concludes with an assessment of the challenges startups will face in raising capital and the potential for differentiation through specialization and strategic alliances.
Overall, this episode provides a thought-provoking glimpse into the future of venture capital, offering insights for both founders and investors navigating a rapidly evolving market.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris engage in a lively debate about the current state of AI investments and the implications for startups in the tech space. They kick off the discussion by analyzing recent statistics indicating that 31% of all assets are now categorized as AI investments, prompting Jon to express skepticism about the sustainability of many AI-focused startups.
Jon argues that many companies labeled "AI companies" may struggle to differentiate themselves in a crowded market, suggesting that AI is often seen as an add-on feature rather than a standalone product. He contrasts this perspective with Peter's view that AI represents a transformative wave similar to past technological advancements, such as mobile technology. Peter asserts that companies built with an AI-first approach may have a competitive advantage over traditional firms that merely integrate AI into their existing products.
The hosts explore various examples, discussing how incumbents like Zendesk could leverage their established customer bases to implement AI solutions more effectively than new entrants can gain market share. They also consider the broader implications of AI on product development costs and customer acquisition strategies, highlighting the evolving landscape where discoverability becomes increasingly challenging as more applications emerge.
Throughout the episode, Jon and Peter provide valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges facing founders in the AI space, encouraging listeners to think critically about their business models and the potential for disruption in a rapidly changing environment. This episode serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the future of AI investments and what it means for entrepreneurs navigating this dynamic market.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the complexities of founder motivation and the impact of success on entrepreneurial drive. They explore the dynamics between venture capitalists and successful founders, particularly how wealth and achievement can influence a founder's work ethic and commitment to their company.
Jon shares insights from conversations with various VCs who express concerns about founders becoming complacent after achieving significant financial success. He questions whether a founder's newfound wealth might lead to distractions, such as excessive travel or lavish spending, which could affect their focus on growing the business. Peter counters this perspective by emphasizing that experienced founders often leverage their networks and knowledge to be more productive, even if they aren't putting in traditional long hours.
The hosts delve into real-life examples, including the story of Josh Coats, who returned to leadership after realizing he wanted to set a better example for his children. They discuss how personal motivations can reignite a founder's passion for their company, regardless of their financial status.
Throughout the episode, Jon and Peter highlight the importance of maintaining a balance between personal success and professional responsibility. They stress that while it's essential for founders to enjoy their achievements, they must also remain committed to their company's vision and goals. The conversation also touches on the optics of founder behavior in the public eye, discussing how social media presence can influence investor perceptions.
Overall, this episode provides valuable insights for both founders and investors on navigating the challenges of motivation and expectations in the venture capital landscape, encouraging a deeper understanding of what drives successful entrepreneurs beyond financial gain.
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Website: https://www.venturecapital.fm/
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris tackle the critical question: "Should you raise venture capital funding?" They draw from recent discussions in the entrepreneurial community, where founders often seek advice on fundraising strategies and common pitfalls.
Peter shares his perspective on the frequent mistakes founders make when fundraising, particularly focusing on ownership percentage and valuation rather than securing the right amount of capital to reach their next milestones. He emphasizes that many companies raised inflated valuations during the boom years and now struggle to meet expectations, leading to difficult situations like down rounds or flat rounds.
Jon adds to the conversation by discussing the psychological aspects of fundraising, including how founders can become overly focused on securing higher valuations rather than considering the long-term health of their business. He highlights the importance of understanding market conditions and being realistic about what is achievable.
The hosts explore the implications of raising too much money, which can lead to overspending and a lack of discipline in managing resources. They stress that founders should prioritize finding the right partners who will support their growth journey rather than simply chasing larger checks.
Throughout the episode, Jon and Peter provide actionable insights for founders contemplating venture capital, encouraging them to evaluate their business model, market potential, and personal readiness for the demands of rapid growth. They conclude by discussing how not every business is suited for venture backing and that sometimes alternative funding methods may be more appropriate.
Overall, this episode offers valuable guidance for entrepreneurs navigating the complex world of venture capital, helping them make informed decisions about pursuing VC funding or exploring other avenues for growth.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris engage in a lively discussion about OpenAI and the implications of its recent $6.6 billion funding round—the largest ever raised by a startup. The hosts explore both the bullish and bearish perspectives surrounding OpenAI’s future, dissecting the competitive landscape and the strategic advantages held by established tech giants like Microsoft.
Jon expresses a bearish outlook, arguing that while OpenAI has captured the attention of younger generations, it faces significant challenges from entrenched players with extensive resources and established customer bases. He raises concerns about whether OpenAI can maintain its momentum and become a dominant force akin to Google, suggesting that AI may ultimately become just another feature expected in software products.
Conversely, Peter presents a bullish case for OpenAI, highlighting its rapid revenue growth and strong enterprise sales. He points out that the company has successfully positioned itself as synonymous with AI technology, becoming a verb in popular culture. Peter emphasizes that OpenAI's ability to generate substantial revenue quickly is indicative of its potential to thrive in the competitive landscape.
Throughout the episode, the hosts engage in a spirited debate about the future of AI, discussing the importance of brand recognition, market positioning, and the challenges of discoverability in an increasingly crowded space. They reflect on how incumbents may leverage their existing customer relationships to dominate the market while considering how OpenAI can navigate these complexities.
Overall, this episode provides listeners with an insightful analysis of OpenAI’s current standing and future prospects, offering valuable perspectives for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone interested in the evolving world of artificial intelligence.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris kick off Season Two with an engaging discussion about their recent activities and reflections on the venture capital landscape. They share insights from their participation in the Founder 100 event in Utah, which celebrated the top 100 founders as voted by their peers. This unique approach fostered a vibrant networking atmosphere, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs.
Jon and Peter discuss the challenges of balancing their busy schedules while organizing impactful events and exploring ideas for future gatherings, including potential activities like racing events to engage the entrepreneurial community. They also touch on the importance of communication and feedback between founders and investors, sharing personal anecdotes about navigating these conversations.
The hosts emphasize the significance of graciously receiving feedback as a founder, highlighting that constructive criticism can be invaluable for growth. They also reflect on the complexities of providing actionable feedback to entrepreneurs, discussing how it can influence future interactions and funding opportunities.
Throughout the episode, Jon and Peter provide listeners with personal stories, industry insights, and practical advice for founders and investors. This lively conversation sets the tone for an exciting season, promising more valuable discussions on venture capital trends and entrepreneurship.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris delve into "Who are Accredited Investors?" The hosts provide a detailed masterclass on common terminology essential for individuals seeking funding or pursuing a career in venture capital. They begin by defining an accredited investor as someone with a net worth exceeding $1 million, excluding their primary residence, or an individual with an income of over $200,000 individually or $300,000 with a spouse for the past two years.
The discussion further explores the criteria for accredited investors, including financial and professional qualifications. The hosts explain that knowledgeable investors in venture capital, private equity, or those holding specific licenses like Series 7 or Series 65 can also qualify. They emphasize the importance of these qualifications in protecting investors and companies from high-risk investments and potential legal issues.
Moreover, the episode sheds light on the significance of accredited investor status for companies raising funds, venture capital firms, and private equity funds. It is highlighted that requiring accredited investors provides legal protections for both the companies and the investors, ensuring transparency and safeguarding against potential disputes in the future.
The hosts also touch on the practical implications of being an accredited investor, such as the ability to absorb potential losses without significant financial strain. They stress the importance of educating investors on the risks involved in high-risk investments and the need for founders to work with legal counsel to ensure compliance and protection for all parties involved.
Overall, this podcast episode offers a comprehensive exploration of accredited investors, their qualifications, and the legal and financial implications for both investors and companies in the venture capital landscape.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris delve into the concept of burn rate, a crucial term in the venture capital industry. They define burn rate as the total amount a company spends every month minus its income, emphasizing that it measures how much cash a company is burning every month.
The hosts discuss the importance of understanding the burn rate, highlighting its significance in determining a company's runway, which is how long a company can sustain itself without raising additional capital. They explain that a company's burn rate can fluctuate and that it is essential to consider this when forecasting and planning for the future.
The conversation also touches on the role of CEOs in managing burn rates, emphasizing the need for them to make difficult decisions to reduce expenses and increase revenue. Jon and Peter share their own experiences with companies that have successfully managed their burn rate, highlighting the importance of transparency and planning in maintaining a healthy cash flow.
Throughout the episode, the hosts provide valuable insights into the venture capital industry, discussing the challenges of managing burn rate and the importance of understanding it for founders and investors alike. They also share their advice for founders, emphasizing the need to plan for the future and to raise capital with a minimum of six months of runway.
Overall, this podcast episode offers a comprehensive explanation of burn rate, its significance in the venture capital industry, and its impact on the performance and reputation of venture capital firms.
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In this episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris delve into the concept of bridge rounds, a crucial term in the venture capital industry. They define bridge rounds as financing that bridges the gap between one round of funding and the next, typically used when a company needs additional capital to achieve specific milestones or maintain operations until the next funding round.
The hosts discuss the importance of understanding bridge rounds, emphasizing that they are often used to provide a company with the necessary capital to achieve specific milestones or to maintain operations until the next funding round. They highlight the different types of bridge rounds, including the full and partial ratchet, and explain how these provisions can significantly affect a company's ability to raise future financing rounds.
The conversation also touches on the role of pro-rata rights, which allow investors to maintain their ownership stake in a company even if the company raises additional capital at a lower valuation. Jon and Peter emphasize that pro-rata rights are a key component of bridge rounds and are essential for investors to maintain their position in a company.
Throughout the episode, the hosts provide valuable insights into the venture capital industry, discussing the challenges of managing bridge rounds and the importance of transparency in deal-making. They also share their own experiences with bridge rounds, highlighting the need for founders to be aware of these provisions and to negotiate them carefully.
Overall, this podcast episode offers a comprehensive explanation of bridge rounds, their significance in the venture capital industry, and their impact on the performance and reputation of venture capital firms.
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Website: https://www.venturecapital.fm/
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