Bryan shares his fascinating journey from large-scale e-commerce and retail operations (including senior roles at eBay and Serta Simmons) to the helm of a high-growth SaaS company. We dive deep into his "100-day" roadmap for new CEOs, how he applies the 80/20 principle to scale products, and the delicate balance between taking bold risks and protecting the business. Whether you are a first-time founder or a seasoned executive, Bryan’s unconventional advice on value creation and market timing is a masterclass in modern leadership.

• The "Used Car" Origin Story: Bryan reveals the truth behind the rumor and how early sales experiences shaped his executive vision.
• The First 100 Days: A tactical breakdown of the mindset and game plan required when stepping into a CEO role.
• 80/20 Scaling: How to identify the small percentage of actions that drive the majority of value in a tech business.
• Market Strategy: The debate between the "First-Mover Advantage" versus the "Fast-Follower" acquisition strategy.
• Risk vs. Survival: Navigating the tension between making bold, company-altering bets and ensuring long-term stability (and keeping your job).

Bryan Murphy is the CEO of Smartling, the leading AI translation platform trusted by global brands like British Airways, Shopify, and Lyft. With over two decades of experience, Bryan is a seasoned expert in SaaS, e-commerce, and retail. He previously held senior leadership roles at eBay and Serta Simmons and holds a degree in Business from Miami University.

• Connect with Bryan: LinkedIn
• Learn more about Smartling: Smartling.com

• The 80/20 Principle (Pareto Principle)
• Smartling’s AI Translation Platform
• The First 100 Days Leadership Framework

We dive into the structural inflection points that shaped modern California, the true multi-generational fallout of controversial tax policies like the proposed "Billionaire Tax," and the leadership frameworks required to manage massive public budgets. Steve also pulls back the curtain on his gubernatorial campaign trail, sharing his biggest "ah-ha" moments and how he would structure a modern debate to cut through political theater.

Whether you are interested in macroeconomic policy, corporate governance, or the future of the Golden State, this conversation offers a masterclass in strategic leadership and policy design.

• Structural Inflection Points: The one historical decision that radically altered the trajectory of California's economy and infrastructure.
• The Macroeconomics of Leadership: Deconstructing the specific blend of financial acumen and deep operational experience required to run massive, multi-billion-dollar public budgets.
• Second-Degree Fallout of the "Billionaire Tax": A critical analysis of the downstream, unintended economic consequences of hyper-targeting high-net-worth individuals and capital allocators in California.
• Reimagining the Modern Debate: How Steve would moderate a high-stakes debate, his strategy for crafting questions, and how to force accountability on the public stage.

• Official Campaign Website: Steve Hilton for Governor
• Biography & Background: Steve Hilton on Wikipedia

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial or legal advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

We dive deep into the the distinct blend of financial acumen required to manage massive budgets, and how founders can use an "outsider" strategy to disrupt locked-down markets. Elaine also breaks down the structural financial crisis facing California cities, how running a multi-million dollar corporation compares to running a government, and the exact playbook she is using to challenge the status quo.

• Surviving the Hot Seat: How to mentally and strategically prepare for an interrogation-style business meeting designed to find your breaking point.
• Fixing California's Business Exodus: Beyond simple tax cuts, what practical regulatory shifts are actually required to keep innovators in the state?
• Cities as Corporations: A critical look at which California cities are fundamentally insolvent, and how a structural corporate pivot could save them.
• The 6-Month Government Sprintf: What could be accomplished if a leader had unchecked operational authority for six months—and the cascading second- and third-degree impacts of those rapid changes.

• LinkedIn: Elaine Culotti on LinkedIn
• Official Website: elaineculotti.com

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial or legal advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, host Shawn Flynn sits down with Barry O’Reilly to discuss a fundamental shift in the corporate world: the transition from "doing more" to "deciding better." As AI dominates boardrooms, many leaders find themselves overwhelmed by data but starved for clarity. Barry explains why the real ROI of AI isn't found in software, but in a leader’s ability to synthesize information and increase "decision velocity."

We dive into Barry’s 5–15–30 AI Leadership Roadmap and explore the uncomfortable truth that the AI revolution isn't actually about the technology—it’s about the person leading it.

• Thinking Clearly in the Age of Distraction: The first step for overwhelmed executives to regain their focus and sharpen their decision-making.
• The AI Culture Trap: How to accelerate AI adoption without breaking the foundational trust of your team or compromising company culture.
• Human vs. Machine: Identifying which leadership tasks must remain strictly human and which areas of business we should step back from to let the machine lead.
• Decision Velocity & Advantage: Understanding the compounding effect these forces have on a company’s bottom line.
• Data vs. Synthesis: Why modern leadership is no longer about gathering more data, but about the failure to synthesize what we already have.
• The "Shelf Life" of Ideas: How long until today's AI strategies become 50% or 90% outdated?
• The 5–15–30 Roadmap: A breakdown of leadership priorities at three critical milestones of AI integration.
• The Uncomfortable Truth: Why the shift toward AI is ultimately about the leader’s personal evolution, not the tools they buy.

"The real shift isn’t about adopting new tools, but about changing how leaders make decisions."

"If you removed your entire AI stack tomorrow, what remains tells you everything about your true effectiveness as a leader."

• Guest Website: BarryOReilly.com
• LinkedIn: Connect with Barry O’Reilly
• Nobody Studios: nobodystudios.com
• The Silicon Valley Podcast: thesiliconvalleypodcast.com

Barry O’Reilly is a world-renowned business advisor, entrepreneur, and author who pioneered the "Unlearn" movement. He focuses on helping high-performance leaders and organizations build "systems" rather than just using "tools" to scale innovation and decision-making.

The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial or legal advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Over the last eight years, Hussein has led Super.com through several strategic pivots—one of which transformed the company’s trajectory toward unicorn status. In this conversation, he shares how to balance data with instinct, why high-profile investors can be both a blessing and a challenge, and how building the right organizational structure has helped his teams stay aligned and motivated.

🔍 In This Episode, We Cover:

Hussein’s entrepreneurial journey: From AdParlor to Super.com

Lessons learned from early career experiences that shaped his leadership style

The pivotal moment when he realized Super.com could become a unicorn

The balance of gut feeling vs. data in company pivots

The role of celebrity investors and how they’ve influenced the business

Why Super.com chose not to build a member community—and what others can learn from that

How early customer feedback shaped Super.com’s direction

A framework for gathering and acting on customer insights

Product expansion vs. market penetration—how to decide what to focus on

Why every founder should consider a CEO coach—and how to choose one

The creation and impact of “mission-aligned teams” at Super.com

How to introduce alternative org structures and guide teams through change

Resilience during existential challenges—and Hussein’s personal mindset

Tips for founders looking to bring celebrities onto their cap table

A leadership lesson learned the hard way—and how you can avoid it

🔗 Learn More About Hussein Fazal and Super.com:

LinkedIn: Hussein Fazal

Company: Super.com

💬 Quote from Hussein:

“You can pivot 100 times, but if you don’t listen to your customers, you’ll miss the one pivot that could change everything.”

⚠️ 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.

#startups #siliconvalley #technology #super.com #stephcurry

About the Guest: Matthew Le Merle is a leading figure in early-stage venture capital, having previously managed Keiretsu, the world's largest angel network. In 2014, he made a strategic pivot into the digital asset space, co-founding Blockchain Coinvestors. The firm is now dedicated to the vision that digital monies, commodities, and assets are inevitable, and all of the world's financial infrastructure must be upgraded. With investment strategies now in their 12th year, Blockchain Coinvestors has backed a combined portfolio of over 1,250 blockchain companies and projects, including more than 110 blockchain unicorns.

Join us for a deep dive with Matthew Le Merle as he shares the strategic insights that drove his firm into blockchain investing over a decade ago. We explore the massive shift toward digital assets, the unique mechanics of the fund-of-funds model, and the critical role of tokenomics in the crypto ecosystem.

Key Discussion Points:

• The 2014 Pivot: What initial observations and conviction led Matthew to commit deeply to the blockchain space a decade ago?
• A New Financial Infrastructure: Dan elaborates on Blockchain Coinvestors' core vision: why the transition to digital monies, commodities, and assets is inevitable, and what that means for the world's current financial systems.

• Screening for Unicorns: With a portfolio of over 1,250 blockchain companies, what common characteristics does the firm look for in promising very early-stage companies?
• Filtering the Noise: Matthew details his team's rigorous screening methods used to filter for the most promising startups from a massive pool of opportunities.
• SPACs & IPOs:
  • A simple definition of a SPAC (Special Purpose Acquisition Company) for the audience.
  • How SPACs might play a future role in taking high-growth crypto and blockchain companies public.
  • The current IPO landscape for blockchain innovators—are traditional IPOs or alternative paths more prevalent?

• Fund-of-Funds Explained: An operational deep dive into the dynamics of the fund-of-funds investment model.
• Investor Rationale: The most common reasons why investors choose to gain blockchain exposure through a fund-of-funds like Blockchain Coinvestors.
• Returns and Structure: How the returns and operational/legal structure of a fund-of-funds compare to those of a direct venture capital fund.

• Tokenomics 101: A clear explanation of tokenomics—what it is and how it fundamentally works within a blockchain ecosystem to incentivize user behavior and align stakeholders.
• Investor Benefits: The primary benefits and unique opportunities associated with companies that issue their own tokens.
• The AI-Blockchain Convergence: What excites Matthew most about the merging possibilities of AI and blockchain, and where he predicts the most significant developments will occur in the next few years.

Learn more about Matthew and Blockchain Coinvestors at www.BlockchainCoinvestors.com

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial or legal advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

About the Guest: Dan Fineberg is a veteran technologist with over 40 years of experience working at the intersection of technology and marketing, including leadership roles at Intel Corp. and FEI Co. As CTO of The Fusion Syndicate, Dan now specializes in leveraging emerging technologies, particularly generative AI, to accelerate content productivity and drive measurable business results for customers.

Many organizations are still viewing AI as a simple tool for generating text with a prompt. Dan Fineberg breaks down why that's the biggest misconception and shows us how to transition from basic experimentation to a reliable, scalable system that dramatically improves content production and delivers significant ROI.

Key Discussion Points:

• The Biggest Misconception: Dan tackles the most common myth he hears about using AI in the enterprise and shares his simple "signal vs. noise" test for identifying true business value.
• Moving Past Prompt Engineering: Learn why focusing only on the quality of a prompt is a limited approach, and how The Fusion Syndicate’s approach goes beyond simple inputs to structure a robust, end-to-end system.
• The AI Content Workflow: Dan walks us through the typical, repeatable steps teams should implement, covering the entire process from initial research all the way through to a validated, ready-to-publish output.
• Measurable Impact (Before & After): What practical, tangible differences have teams seen once they put this structured AI system in place? Dan shares real-world stories of accelerated productivity and transformation.
• The Next Wave of ROI: Where should businesses look beyond marketing and content creation for the next high-value applications of AI workflows?
• Strategic Fit: For listeners trying to understand the competitive landscape, Dan explains where this AI workflow approach fits in—is it meant to replace agencies, internal teams, or dedicated point tools?
• Getting Started: For founders and teams ready to adopt this approach, Dan recommends the first high-impact workflow they should pilot to ensure early success and build momentum.
• Resources: Recommended materials for anyone who wants to learn more and begin experimenting with AI content acceleration.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial or legal advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexrfdantas/

Alex Dantas is the CEO of two organizations that define the hardware and robotics ecosystem in the San Francisco Bay Area:

• Circuit Launch (The "Cofacturing" Space): A coworking and physical center for electronic hardware development and robotics education. It provides private offices, shared electronic labs, and prototype labs for startups, growing companies, and inventors. (http://circuitlaunch.com)
• Mechlabs (Mechatronic Education): An educational platform emphasizing a "build-it-to-learn-it" approach to Mechatronic Engineering education. (http://www.mechlabs.io or http://www.mechlabs.ai)

• Alex shares his background and the journey that led him into the world of robotics and startups.
• What first sparked his interest in robotics? A look at how the robotics landscape has changed over his career.
• Automation All Around Us: What's a robot or automation technology that most people use daily but don’t even realize it?
• Addressing public fear: What is the biggest misconception about robotics Alex encounters from the general public?
• AI Convergence: How are advances in AI and machine learning changing the pace and capabilities of robots today?

• Startup in 2025: What does it fundamentally take to build a robotics startup today?
• Hardware vs. Software: If someone is starting a robotics company, what extra challenges (product development, capital needs) should they be aware of compared to a software startup?
• The Go-to-Market Journey: How are robots actually built, funded, and launched? What does that journey look like from prototype to market?
• Common Mistakes: What is the most common mistake first-time robotics founders make?
• RaaS (Robotics-as-a-Service): Explaining the RaaS trend, what this ecosystem looks like, and why this business model is gaining traction.

• VC Evaluation: How do top robotics venture capitalists evaluate new opportunities today, and what do they prioritize?
• Are investors becoming more open to hardware-heavy startups now that AI and automation are converging?
• Metrics & Milestones: What kinds of metrics or milestones do robotics founders need to show to get serious investor attention?
• The Next Decade: How does Alex think robotics will reshape the labor market over the next decade?
• Future Frontiers: What does Alex think the next frontier in robotics will be—humanoid robots, swarm robotics, or something completely new?

• Circuit Launch Website: http://circuitlaunch.com
• Mechlabs Website: http://www.mechlabs.io or http://www.mechlabs.ai
• Alex Dantas LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexrfdantas/

This episode supports "Giving Hope to People in Need," a charitable initiative led by The Silicon Valley Podcast. Your donation helps the following charities:

Donation link Donate to "Giving Hope to People in Need", led by The Silicon Valley Podcast

• Love Never Fails: Restores survivors of human trafficking with housing, education, and protection.
• Five Keys Home Free: Empowers formerly incarcerated women domestic violence survivors to start over with life skills and career support.
• Open Door Legal: Ensures everyone has access to justice, preventing homelessness and financial ruin.
• Convoy of Hope: Delivers relief and resources to families in crisis around the globe.
• Mission Hiring Hall: Connects people in San Francisco to stable jobs through training and placement.

The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial or legal advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

#robotics #siliconvalley #startups #ai #machines

In this episode, we sit down with Doug Merritt, one of the most respected leaders in enterprise technology. Doug discusses the emotional journey of stepping down from a CEO role, what pulled him back into leadership at Aviatrix, and how AI is reshaping companies, cloud security, and competitive strategy.

We explore how organizations can stay secure and agile in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, and Doug shares leadership lessons drawn from his lifelong involvement in athletics.

Whether you're a founder, executive, or technologist, this episode offers valuable insight into the intersection of AI, leadership, and organizational resilience.

• Doug’s career path and return to CEO life
• Emotional challenges of stepping down from leadership
• How AI is reshaping business and cloud network security
• Key findings from Doug’s recent industry survey
• How companies can strengthen security and stay agile
• Lessons from athletics applied to leadership
• What Doug is focused on now at Aviatrix

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-m-33169/ Learn more about Aviatrix: https://aviatrix.ai

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial or legal advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Dr. Bijna Kotak Dasani is a global leader in venture capital, strategic partnerships, and capital formation. As the Founder of ArthAum Group, she has built a firm that helps funds and companies scale smarter—through tailored launch strategies, operational excellence, and global investor networks.

In this episode, Dr. Bijna shares her journey from financial services leadership into founding ArthAum Group, and offers practical insights for fund managers, entrepreneurs, and investors navigating today’s fast-moving venture capital markets.

We cover:

• Fund launch strategies – how first-time managers differ from established funds
• The biggest mistakes new funds make during launch and how to avoid them
• The role of fund operating administration in long-term success
• Why strong back-office operations can make or break a venture fund
• How to structure partnerships for growth and diversification
• The KPIs she uses to identify high-value partners for clients
• Leveraging global investor networks to form capital and expand reach
• The importance of a global perspective when seeking capital
• Key trends in venture capital and partnerships across geographies and sectors
• Where the VC and partnership landscape is headed in the next five years

Finally, Dr. Bijna explains what differentiates ArthAum Group from other firms, and how fund managers or companies can best connect with her team.

About the Guest Dr. Bijna Kotak Dasani is the Founder of ArthAum Group, a firm specializing in fund market strategy, operating administration, and capital formation. With decades of experience across global financial institutions, she is recognized for her expertise in helping funds and companies build scalable structures, forge partnerships, and unlock growth through innovation.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial or legal advice. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

#venturecapital #fundoffunds #siliconvalley #tech #investing

For over three decades, Valuation has been the definitive guide to corporate value creation. Called “the best practitioners’ guide to valuation” by the Financial Times and one of “the most influential contemporary books about the world economy” by The Economist, the book has sold over one million copies worldwide.

Now in its 8th edition, Tim Koller and his co-authors bring fresh insights on AI, sustainability, digital transformation, and geopolitics—helping business leaders sharpen their decision-making and balance long-term value creation with the pressures of today’s markets.

In this episode, Tim shares:

• Why short-term earnings obsession remains the biggest misconception in corporate strategy
• How AI can help identify groupthink and bias in real time
• The real impact of tariffs and geopolitics on company valuations
• How leaders can balance shareholder value with stakeholder needs
• Why sustainability priorities should be tailored to the unique risks of each industry
• Lessons from Warren Buffett and contrarian thinkers who resisted market hype
• What has—and hasn’t—changed about being a great CEO since 1990

Tim also reflects on 35 years of writing Valuation, explaining why timeless principles of growth, innovation, and long-term orientation matter more than ever in both stable and volatile times.

About the Guest Tim Koller is a partner at McKinsey’s Denver office and founder of McKinsey’s Strategy and Corporate Finance Insights team. With more than 40 years of consulting experience, he has helped countless executives, boards, and investors navigate complex financial and strategic decisions.

Resources & Links 📖 Valuation: Measuring and Managing the Value of Companies (8th Edition) – Available May 20, 2025 from Wiley 🔗 Connect with Tim Koller via his PR contact: Rebecca Proulx, rebecca@fortierpr.com

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial or legal advice. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Lori Rosenkopf is the Vice Dean of Entrepreneurship and the Simon and Midge Palley Professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. As Wharton’s Faculty Director for Venture Lab, she supports student entrepreneurs across the university.

She previously served as Vice Dean and Director of Wharton’s 2,500-student Undergraduate Division from 2013 to 2019, where she introduced a new curriculum, expanded career pathways, and created more opportunities for students. Her research and teaching draw from her background in systems engineering and social science, with a focus on networks and learning in knowledge industries. With deep connections to Wharton alumni and a sharp understanding of millennial and Gen Z aspirations, Lori brings a unique perspective on the future of entrepreneurship.

• The most transformative changes in entrepreneurship education at Wharton
• What makes Wharton’s approach effective in producing world-class leaders
• How students are expanding their definition of entrepreneurship beyond Silicon Valley stereotypes
• The role of mentors and role models in shaping entrepreneurial careers
• Traits Lori has seen consistently in students who go on to build impactful ventures
• Insights from her book Unstoppable Entrepreneurs and the stories that inspired it
• How Wharton alumni networks create opportunities for the next generation of founders
• Lessons from organizations like Harlem Capital on the future of venture funding
• How Gen Z founders are rethinking impact, purpose, and business models

The views expressed in this podcast are Lori’s own and are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial or legal advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Bay Area entrepreneur, cybersecurity startup founder, and medical device/supply chain import partner. Internationally renowned professional kiteboarder and big wave safety expert.

Brian Rogers

Design and business thinker, expert in AI/ML, IoT, big data, fintech, and platform development. Author of patents, guest lecturer, and industry leader in blockchain.

In this episode, we dive deep into how technology, infrastructure, and strong personal networks converge to drive capital and growth in sectors from medical devices to public works. We speak with Jeff Kafka, the founder behind the famous Silicon Valley kite surfing pitch events, about the value of relationships in business growth, and with Brian Rogers, an expert in AI, IoT, and digital transformation, about the future of finance and government partnerships. We explore how their new venture, Storyboard Capital, focuses on opportunities in areas typically ignored by traditional tech investors.

• Kite Surfing Pitch Events: The origin story of the famous Silicon Valley kite surfing pitch events and the key lessons learned while observing early-stage companies raising capital.
• Missed Opportunities: Jeff shares his list of companies he met early on but passed on investing in, and the reasons why those opportunities were missed at the time.
• The Role of People: How Jeff's diverse career—from cybersecurity to big wave safety to medical supply chain—has consistently revolved around people and relationships.
• Business Growth: The crucial importance of relationships when scaling a business.

• Public/Private Partnerships (P3s): A detailed explanation of what Public/Private Partnerships are and how companies currently go about identifying these government opportunities.
• AI in Government Financing: How Artificial Intelligence can help streamline the process for companies to find and obtain government contracts.
• Technology for Development: How technology, public/private partnerships, and infrastructure development are creating opportunities in remote or "off the grid" areas globally.

• AI and Financing: How Jeff and Brian see AI changing the landscape for companies obtaining financing, particularly in how deals are sourced and structured.
• Investment Banker's Role: The evolving role of the investment banker in the future and how they will integrate AI into transaction processes.
• The Future of Outreach: How customized, AI-driven outreach will change the success or failure rates for projects and deal sourcing.
• Beyond the Interview: Key concepts related to AI that the audience should be thinking about moving forward.

• Storyboard Capital Website: https://storyboardcapital.com/
• Jeff Kafka's Contact: Jeffkafka8@gmail.com
• Jeff Kafka's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkafka/
• Brian Rogers' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brogers/
• Affiliate Companies:
  • https://grapheene.com
  • http://www.strongwatertech.com

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 and do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Waseem Daher is the Founder and Executive Chairman of Pilot, a modern finance team offering bookkeeping, tax, and CFO services for startups, e-commerce businesses, and professional services firms. Backed by Sequoia Capital and Bezos Expeditions, Pilot has become the go-to back office solution for growing companies.

An engineer by training and a serial entrepreneur, Waseem previously co-founded Ksplice (acquired by Oracle) and Zulip (acquired by Dropbox). He now combines his experience as a three-time founder with insights into startup finance, scaling, and leadership. Beyond Pilot, Waseem writes regularly about building startups on LinkedIn and in his newsletter, Startup Real Talk.

• Why founder salaries dropped 43% in 2025 and what this means for early-stage companies
• How founders should think about compensation when talking to investors
• Risks startups face when founders underpay themselves
• How company stage, funding, and geography influence salary decisions
• The role of boards and investors in shaping compensation
• What lessons Waseem carried from Ksplice and Zulip into Pilot
• Insights into bootstrapping vs. venture-backed founder pay
• How founders can use Pilot’s salary data to benchmark and negotiate effectively
• Why the number of AI startups surged by 287%, yet founder salaries declined
• What the rise in bootstrapped startups (up 77%) says about today’s funding environment

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are my own and are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial or legal advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

In this episode, we sit down with Shawn Villaron, a 29-year veteran at Microsoft who has helped shape some of the company’s most widely used products and strategies. Now serving as Vice President of Customer and Strategic Initiatives in the Office Product Group, Shawn partners with Microsoft’s most important customers to better understand their needs around AI, workplace modernization, and productivity—insights that directly shape the future of Microsoft Office.

Previously, Shawn was Vice President & General Manager for PowerPoint, where he led teams across multiple platforms—Windows, Mac, Web, iPad, Android, and iOS—reimagining how billions of people create and deliver stories. He also serves as Engineering Site Leader for Microsoft Bay Area, working across commercial, consumer, hardware, and AI platforms, while championing diversity and inclusion as executive sponsor of HOLA (Hispanic & Latinx Organization of Leaders in Action).

Shawn brings a rare perspective: spending nearly three decades at a single company, driving innovation from the inside, and now exploring how AI and agents are reshaping the way we work, create, and build businesses.

• The positives and challenges of building an entire career at one company in the fast-moving tech world.
• How PowerPoint and Office are being reimagined for the AI storytelling era.
• Practical ways companies can encourage employees to use AI responsibly and effectively.
• How leaders can use AI to boost both creativity and productivity within teams.
• When employees might be using too much AI—or not enough.
• What it means to become an “AI Agent Boss” and how agents can give startups enterprise-level capabilities.
• Whether the concept of the one-person unicorn is realistic, and what’s still missing.
• How recent graduates can stand out in an AI-driven job market.
• The emerging technologies Microsoft’s Bay Area teams are most excited about right now.
• One piece of advice Shawn would give to founders and technologists building the next generation of workplace tools.

• What are the upsides and downsides of staying at one company for nearly three decades?
• How is Microsoft rethinking storytelling with AI in PowerPoint and Office?
• How can leaders balance productivity and creativity when adopting AI tools?
• What role will AI Agents play in empowering both startups and enterprises?
• Are we truly heading toward the era of the one-person unicorn?
• What advice would you give to graduates entering an AI-powered job market?
• Which emerging technologies are your Bay Area teams most focused on right now?

Shawn Villaron is Vice President of Customer and Strategic Initiatives in the Microsoft Office Product Group, where he drives strategy by working closely with top customers to shape the future of AI and productivity. Previously, he served as Vice President & GM of PowerPoint, guiding the product across every platform and ensuring seamless experiences for millions of users. He also serves as Engineering Site Leader for Microsoft Bay Area and as executive sponsor of HOLA, advancing diversity and inclusion at Microsoft.

• LinkedIn: Shawn Villaron | LinkedIn
• Microsoft Bay Area Blog: Microsoft Bay Area Blog
• Microsoft Work Trend Index: The 2025 Annual Work Trend Index: The Frontier Firm is Born

The views expressed on this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial or legal advice. Please consult with a professional for guidance on your specific situation. The opinions shared are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

In this episode, we sit down with Pankaj Patel, one of the most influential leaders in enterprise technology. As the former engineering head of Cisco’s $38 billion portfolio with a $6 billion R&D budget, and now the founder and CEO of Nile, Pankaj brings unparalleled insight into the future of networking, AI, and enterprise security.

Pankaj shares lessons from building and leading global engineering organizations, the principles he applied to acquisitions and innovation at scale, and why he believes simplicity and security must define the next era of enterprise technology. We also explore how Nile is disrupting the status quo, delivering secure and simple networking as a service, and why Pankaj considers this company the fulfillment of an “unfulfilled mission” in his career.

Whether you’re a technology executive, founder, or investor, this conversation offers invaluable perspective on how to navigate complexity, embrace AI, and prepare for the enterprise networks of the future.

• Leadership at scale: What it was like managing 29,000 engineers and a $6 billion R&D budget at Cisco.
• Acquisition strategy: How Pankaj evaluated companies for acquisition and integration.
• The AI reality check: Why many legacy companies are calling themselves AI-first, and whether the claims hold up.
• Simplicity in enterprise tech: Why products have historically been built around complexity, and why simplifying networks is both challenging and essential.
• Security reimagined: What truly makes a system secure, why humans are often the weakest link, and how AI will transform security.
• The “unfulfilled mission”: Why Pankaj launched Nile and how the company is disrupting the networking industry.
• Future of enterprise tech: How networking, AI, and security are converging to reshape the next decade.
• Investor perspective: What Pankaj looks for in founders and startups as a board member, advisor, and venture partner.

• What principles guided your allocation of Cisco’s $6 billion R&D budget?
• What criteria did you use when acquiring companies, and how did you evaluate integration risk?
• Why has enterprise tech often thrived on complexity, and how is Nile changing that?
• How do you see AI shaping the future of networking and security?
• What advice would you give to enterprises overwhelmed by legacy systems?
• What was the “unfulfilled mission” that led you to launch Nile?
• How has your leadership style evolved from managing tens of thousands at Cisco to leading a focused startup team?
• What do you look for in founders when joining boards or investing?
• How will the convergence of networking, AI, and security define the next 5–10 years?

Pankaj Patel is the Founder and CEO of Nile, where he is reimagining the future of networking by delivering secure, simple, and customer-obsessed services. Previously, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer at Cisco, overseeing the company’s $38 billion product portfolio. He is also a Partner and Chief Strategy Officer at JC2 Ventures, a Senior Advisor at March Capital, and serves on the boards of several leading technology startups.

• LinkedIn: Pankaj Patel
• Nile: https://nilesecure.com

The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. Please consult with a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

The views expressed are those of the guest and host and do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

#ai #cybersecurity #nilesecure #siliconvalley #podcast

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:

• Fundraising Misconceptions: What is a common mistake founders make when pitching to VCs, especially regarding their focus on senior partners?
• Founder Traits: What underrated qualities does Taylor look for in strong founders of B2B companies?
• Breaking into VC: Taylor shares her advice for those without a “traditional” resume and reveals her own path into the industry.
• Assessing Risk: How does she evaluate the adoption risk of investing in infrastructure and logistics companies?
• The Future of Tech: We get Taylor's take on the next big opportunities in vertical SaaS and B2B marketplaces, and what signals she's tracking.
• AI Adoption: A discussion on how AI is being adopted in businesses, particularly when it doesn't require a change in existing processes.
• Athlete & Founder Mindset: Exploring the correlation Taylor sees between being an athlete and a successful founder or VC.

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:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-brandt-89415250/
• Headline Website: https://headline.com/

#VentureCapital

#FounderAdvice

#TechInvesting

#SaaSTech

#StartupFunding

#VC

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:

• The Hierarchy of Metrics: We explore Mercedes's framework for evaluating a company's health and why founders should pay close attention to it.
• Building a Fund: What it's like, both logistically and emotionally, for a partner to launch their own fund while managing an existing portfolio.
• Risk and Timing: The parallels between high-stakes games like poker and the world of venture capital. How to think about risk, probability, and when to go "all in."
• Evaluating the Market: Mercedes's mental models for assessing new trends, founders, and the future of consumer technology and AI.
• The VC Crossover: Advice for aspiring investors and operators looking to break into the venture capital space.
• The Rise of the RIA: A look into why some larger venture funds are shifting their business models and how that could reshape the industry.

Connect with the Guest:

• Mercedes Bent's LinkedIn: 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.

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

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.

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.

• How public and private sector experiences shaped Ben’s leadership style.
• Lessons learned from winding down a company as CEO.
• Balancing startup life with family responsibilities.
• Building team culture and alignment at Legions.
• Insights from rebranding and redefining a company’s identity.
• Navigating the complexities of working with the Department of Defense.
• Differences in AI adoption between public and private sectors.
• Finding and working with “nice” VCs and spotting red/green flags early.
• Advice for veterans and government professionals starting companies.
• The advantages of being a founder later in life.
• How timing and opportunity intersect in entrepreneurial success.
• What’s next for Yurts over the next 12–18 months.

• Ben Van Roo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanroo/
• Legion Interl: 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.”

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:

• Berkeley SkyDeck's Global Mission: George explains his primary mandate and the challenges of building innovation ecosystems beyond Silicon Valley.
• The Global VC Landscape: A deep dive into how the venture capital ecosystem in Europe and Asia differs from that of Silicon Valley, including core belief systems and risk tolerances.
• Tailoring Accelerator Programs: We discuss how Berkeley customizes its programs to meet the unique needs of different regions.
• Investor and Founder Misconceptions: George sheds light on common misunderstandings that international investors and founders have when evaluating startups or entering the U.S. market.
• Cross-Border Synergy: A success story about a time when expanding SkyDeck's presence led to unexpected synergies and outcomes.
• Looking Ahead to Africa: George shares his thoughts on the opportunities and roadblocks for replicating the model in South East Asia and other parts of the world.
• Advice for International Founders: Practical advice on when and how international startups should approach U.S. investors and enter the U.S. market.

Learn More:

• Connect with George Panagiotakopoulos on LinkedIn. George Panagiotakopoulos | LinkedIn
• Visit the Berkeley SkyDeck website to learn more about their programs. http://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.

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:

• Behind-the-Scenes of Storage Innovation: Tom shares a surprising story about the 25-year research journey behind HAMR technology now rolling out in HDDs.
• Evolving Storage Demands:
  • Learn how SSDs have become primary data center storage and replaced HDDs in personal computers and consumer applications.
  • Understand HDDs' shift to colder storage in data centers—this is their growth market, and much of the world’s data lives on HDDs.
  • Discover magnetic tape's vital role in archiving and backing up cloud data.
  • Explore new archive storage technologies being developed, such as optical recording and DNA storage.
• Memory's Critical Role in AI:
  • Memory, particularly DRAM, is playing a big role in training AI models.
  • Approaches are emerging that reduce the need for expensive DRAM (especially in HBM) for inference applications, using storage technologies like SSDs (e.g., Kioxia's AiSAQ for tuning LLMs).
• er optical storage or DNA for long-term data storage and preservation.
• Why Memory is Overlooked in AI: Insights into why people tend to focus more on processing (GPUs) than on the data itself, despite memory and storage advances being as impressive as those in GPUs.
• Data Privacy & Security in Storage: Essential considerations include having copies of data on immutable storage for ransomware recovery, using AI for anomaly detection on networked systems to prevent malware, and proper encryption use in storage systems for data security.
• The Global Impact of IEEE: Learn about IEEE as the world’s largest technical professional organization with nearly half a million members in over 190 countries. IEEE puts on over 2,000 conferences and events each year and publishes a good percentage of the world’s technical literature. IEEE standards enable interoperability and industries, with a recent focus on sustainability and ethical AI practices to solve global problems and benefit humanity.
• Future of Memory and Storage (FMS) Conference: Dr. Coughlin, the general chair, provides details on the 2025 FMS (August 4-7, 2025, at the Santa Clara Convention Center). The conference will feature keynotes by major players in the digital storage and memory industry and sessions covering all major technologies and applications. FMS is the largest independent event focused on digital storage and memory.
• Highlight Speakers at FMS: Keynote talks include representatives from Kioxia, Fadu, Micron, Silicon Motion, SK hynix, Samsung, Neo, Sandisk, Max Linear, VergeIO, and Kove. There will also be a special session on AI, memory, and storage organized by NVIDIA, and Dr. Coughlin will give a talk on his experiences as IEEE President in 2024. Many parallel sessions will feature speakers from important industry players.
• Major Disruption in Digital Storage: Dr. Coughlin predicts that just managing the massive amounts of data generated by AI and IoT will be a huge challenge. He also foresees a growing need for technology to ensure data provenance, to identify false information and curate data for AI training.
• Career Advice for Tech Professionals: Dr. Coughlin advises aspiring tech professionals to be part of their industry and join technical professional organizations like the IEEE. This provides opportunities to develop professional networks and learn important skills like working with others and communicating through volunteer leadership.

Learn More About Dr. Tom Coughlin and FMS:

• Future of Memory and Storage (FMS) Conference: https://futurememorystorage.com/
• Tom Coughlin's Work: 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.

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:

• How Jed transitioned into the world of business acquisitions — and what surprised him most
• The full story behind a failed acquisition and the lessons that came from it
• Common myths tech professionals believe when entering the small business world
• Why weekend courses and YouTube content often miss the most critical realities of buying a business
• How to realistically assess risk when using leverage to buy a company
• The disadvantages search funds face compared to PE firms — and how to overcome them
• Frameworks and tools Jed recommends for first-time acquirers
• How to spot trouble early in a distressed business — and what buyers should watch out for
• A cautionary tale you’ll want to hear before signing any LOI
• The role of operational fit, management, and culture post-acquisition
• Overlooked sectors and exciting opportunities in today’s acquisition landscape

📬 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.

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.

• Arto’s early start in programming and hacking culture in Finland
• Founding and scaling tech ventures across Europe, the U.S., and the UAE
• The transition from developer to crypto pioneer: Bitcoin, Ethereum, and NEAR Protocol
• Lessons from leading Aurora Labs and building hyperscale Web3 infrastructure
• The biggest misunderstandings around Web3 and crypto adoption
• What tokenomics really means—and how to evaluate them properly
• Smart contract vulnerabilities that are still underappreciated
• Balancing scalability, security, and decentralization in modern blockchain architecture
• What AI and crypto convergence could actually look like
• Why Arto chose to build in Dubai—and what Silicon Valley can learn from it
• What he's building now with Haltia.AI and the ASIMOV Protocol

• What initially drew you to Web3, and how has your perspective changed since?
• How do you answer critics who say crypto is a solution in search of a problem?
• What’s a real-world use case in crypto that doesn’t get enough attention?
• How should founders or investors assess tokenomics today?
• What’s the most underestimated risk in crypto right now?
• You wrote an open letter to Marc Andreessen—what inspired that and what did you say?

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

• Book: The Sovereign Individual
• NEAR Protocol & Aurora Labs
• Room 77 (the original BTC café)
• Haltia.AI & ASIMOV Protocol
• Open letter to Marc Andreessen

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.”

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:

• Anita's Career Journey: Her background and the pivotal moments leading up to entrepreneurship.
• Transition to Founder: The inspiration behind starting a company and the skills carried over from her Business Development days.
• Y Combinator Experience: Key takeaways and the impact of going through the accelerator program.
• Geographic Imperative for Founders: The importance of location (e.g., UK to NYC) in relation to market proximity.
• Early Customer Acquisition: Strategies for getting first customers and building initial trust and credibility.
• Customer Profile Evolution: How LiveFlow identified and refined its ideal customer over time.
• Product Evolution: Pivotal moments and feedback that shaped LiveFlow's development since launch.
• AI in Blue-Collar & Service Industries: Anita's vision for AI's implementation in these sectors.
• CFO Challenges: Addressing the problems CFOs face with multiple financial documents from various companies.
• AI's Impact on Business Growth: How AI has shifted Anita's perspective on strategy and its role in future financial automation.
• M&A and Finance: The biggest issues in the finance world during M&A and how tools like LiveFlow can help.
• Future of Financial Automation: What excites Anita most and where she sees the industry heading in the next 5-10 years.
• LiveFlow's Future Trajectory: Whether LiveFlow is a standalone entity, part of a larger suite, or a potential consolidator.
• Connecting with Anita & LiveFlow: Best ways for listeners to learn more and explore the platform.

Website https://www.liveflow.com/ 

Enjoy 20% off your first 3 months! Be among the first 10 to sign up using the promo code: SVP at LiveFlow.com.

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.”

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.

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.

• 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

• 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?

🔹 Ron on LinkedIn

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.

• Rick’s unconventional path to building a global brand
• What Subliminal Science is and how it works in sales and communication
• The story behind How to Sell Without Ever Saying a Word
• A “lucky accident” that shaped Rick’s business journey
• Where entrepreneurs should look for opportunities in the next 5 years
• How to build influence without being the loudest in the room
• Why being the second smartest person is a powerful position
• Mistakes people make when trying to persuade or influence others
• Rick’s approach to entering new international markets
• How subconscious cues and emotions drive decision-making
• One piece of advice that always surprises founders
• Why “nobody knows anything about anything” (and why that’s good news)

• Website: subliminalselling.co
• LinkedIn: Rick Otton

“You don’t need to be the smartest person in the room—you need to be the one asking the right questions.”

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.

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.

• Jeffrey’s entrepreneurial journey and the founding story of Patsnap
• How metrics for IPOs have shifted over the years
• Why Patsnap opted out of the Singapore exchange and the appeal of Nasdaq
• The strategic value of patents in today’s innovation cycles
• Why companies choose to disclose IP—and when they shouldn’t
• The impact of AI agents on B2B business models
• How tech CEOs stay informed on macro trends and startup disruption
• Navigating private market data and competitor intelligence
• The pros and cons of building a global-first company from Singapore
• Real-world examples of how Patsnap helps companies protect and leverage innovation

• Hidden opportunities in lesser-known patent categories
• Balancing innovation with business execution
• The future of R&D intelligence in a world dominated by AI

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

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.

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.

• Keshia’s Career Journey: How her professional path has shaped her perspective on modern venture capital.
• What VCs Look For in Startups: The core criteria venture capitalists prioritize when evaluating investments—and how founders can align.
• Balancing Vision & Returns: How VCs manage the tension between financial ROI and founder vision.
• Key KPIs in Venture Investing: The metrics that matter and how startups should track and report them.
• Red Flags for VCs: Common early indicators of trouble in portfolio companies—and how to avoid them.
• Liquidity & Exits: How VCs think about liquidity events, secondary sales, and capital returns.
• Crafting an Investment Thesis: What goes into building a compelling thesis that attracts LP capital.
• Venture Capital & Family Offices: Trends shaping these increasingly collaborative relationships.
• Fund Economics Explained: Core differences between venture capital and private equity economics.
• Overlooked Fund Expenses: Hidden costs that new fund managers often miss.
• Reporting to LPs: How firms communicate performance, and what LPs actually care about.
• When Investments Go to Zero: Fund strategy, tax implications, and wind-down considerations.
• Lessons for Emerging Managers: Common pitfalls and best practices for first-time fund leaders.
• Founder Success Story: A candid look at one portfolio company’s journey and growth challenges.

• How branding influences deal flow and VC visibility.
• One thing Keshia would change about the VC industry.
• How AI and automation are changing the game for VCs and founders alike.

To follow Keshia’s work or reach out for collaboration, connect with her on LinkedIn.

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.”

What We Cover:

• Mo’s career journey: From big tech to startup founder to venture capitalist
• The truth about how VC really works behind the scenes
• How VCs and LPs think—and what most founders get wrong
• Media myths: What’s often misunderstood about startups and founders
• Balancing growth with personal life: Tips for maintaining perspective
• Mental wellness and leadership—why it matters more than ever
• Making the leap from employee to entrepreneur: Key mindset shifts
• The challenge of engineers becoming business leaders
• The emotional journey of selling your company—and what happens next
• Lessons learned after an exit: What no one tells you
• Future trends in entrepreneurship and venture capital
• The core message behind Mo’s book and how it can help you

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.

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.

• A behind-the-scenes look at what happens after a company is acquired by a PE firm
• The biggest operational and cultural challenges businesses face post-acquisition
• How John identifies inefficiencies and aligns with PE growth expectations
• The difference between value delivered vs. services performed—and why that distinction matters
• Real-world insights into change management, KPI tracking, and pricing strategy

• Post-acquisition integration and value creation
• Operational due diligence and strategic alignment
• Cost efficiency without compromising growth
• Building leadership alignment and managing expectations
• PE investor communications and performance reporting
• Long-term strategies for maximizing valuation at exit

💼 LinkedIn: John Bisack

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.

• 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

• 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

• 🌐 Website: www.thepauladler.com

• 📧 Email: linkedin.com/in/pauladler1

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.

• 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

• Influence by Robert Cialdini

• How to Know a Person by David Brooks

• Film: 12 Angry Men

Listen to Stan's Podcast All Things Negotiation - Podcast - Apple Podcasts

• Stan Christensen on LinkedIn

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.

• 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

📍 LinkedIn – Shalabh Gupta

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.

✔️ 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

• Startup founders and entrepreneurs
• Business leaders exploring AI adoption
• Investors and venture capitalists
• Tech professionals and AI enthusiasts
• Anyone interested in startup exits and digital transformation

LinkedIn Profile

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.

✔️ 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

• Startup founders and entrepreneurs
• Early-stage investors and venture capitalists
• Tech enthusiasts and product managers
• Anyone curious about how world-changing products and companies are built

✅ AI Agents vs. Traditional AI – What sets them apart and how they’re reshaping customer service. ✅ The Role of AI in Business Growth – How AI can enhance both customer and employee experiences.

✅ M&A Strategy at Zendesk – The company’s approach to acquisitions and lessons from past deals. ✅ AI's Impact on Competitive Advantage – Will AI adoption create stronger moats or increase disruption risks? ✅ Zendesk’s Future Vision – What innovations are coming and where the company is headed in the next decade.

🔹 How are AI Agents revolutionizing customer service, and how do they differ from traditional tools? 🔹 What are some real-world examples of businesses benefiting from AI adoption? 🔹 How can businesses balance AI-driven efficiency with personalized customer experiences? 🔹 What metrics should companies track to measure AI's impact on operations? 🔹 What’s Zendesk’s M&A playbook, and how does it guide acquisition decisions? 🔹 How can AI enhance the employee experience, not just the customer experience? 🔹 What groundbreaking innovations is Zendesk unveiling at Zendesk Relate? 🔹 What’s Tom’s vision for the next 5-10 years in AI and customer service? 🔹 How does a CEO continually adapt and grow in a fast-changing market?

🔗 Tom’s LinkedIn 🔗 Zendesk Website

Email: Tom.eggemeier@zendesk.com

From launching businesses as a teenager to coaching top CEOs—including Kimbal Musk—Cameron has mastered the art of scaling operations, creating high-performance cultures, and driving business success. He’s also the founder of COO Alliance, the only peer group dedicated to helping Chief Operating Officers excel in their roles.

✅ How Cameron transformed 1-800-GOT-JUNK? into a global brand ✅ His Sunday Night Planning Method for a productive week ✅ The DORAGI Coaching Framework and its impact on leadership ✅ The secret behind Vivid Vision and how it fuels business growth ✅ How to delegate effectively without micromanaging ✅ The TORC Hiring Method to ensure you build an A+ team ✅ The power of daily huddles in maintaining team alignment ✅ Real-life strategies for handling workplace conflict and fostering company culture

Cameron also shares actionable insights on project management, hiring strategies, and leadership development, making this episode a must-listen for entrepreneurs, executives, and anyone looking to scale a business effectively.

🔗 Connect with Cameron: CameronHerold.com 🔗 Learn more about COO Alliance: COOAlliance.com

If you're looking for proven leadership strategies to take your company to the next level, you won’t want to miss this episode!

From understanding the legal and financial considerations to ensuring a smooth transition for all stakeholders, this conversation is packed with practical advice for founders, investors, and anyone involved in the startup ecosystem.

Guest Bio: Dori Yona is a seasoned entrepreneur and startup founder who understands firsthand the challenges of shutting down a business. During his previous venture, his company came close to closing, and he was tasked with navigating the shutdown process—only to find a lack of clear information, guidance, and support. After dealing with lawyers, accountants, and endless confusion, he realized that 90% of startups that raise capital will eventually shut down, yet the process remains a daunting mystery. That experience led him to co-found SimpleClosure, a company dedicated to helping startups wind down properly and efficiently through technology-driven solutions.

Key Topics Discussed: ✔️ The step-by-step process of winding down a business ✔️ The do’s and don’ts of business closures and why they matter ✔️ The timeline and costs associated with shutting down a company ✔️ Best practices for ensuring fair treatment of employees, investors, and creditors ✔️ How founders can turn a difficult shutdown into a learning experience

Guest Website & Links: 🔗 Dori Yona on LinkedIn 🔗 SimpleClosure Website

Questions Covered in This Episode:

1. What are the key do’s and don’ts when shutting down a company, and why are they important?
2. Can you walk us through the wind-down process step-by-step?
3. Who is responsible for each part of the wind-down, from decision-making to execution?
4. What is a typical timeline for winding down a business, and what factors affect it?
5. What are the costs involved in closing a company, and how can founders manage them efficiently?
6. If a company sells its assets, does it still need to formally close, or are there alternatives?
7. How can founders ensure employees, investors, and creditors are treated fairly during a wind-down?
8. What are the main differences between an asset sale and a stock sale in a business exit?
9. Are there any legal or financial implications of asset vs. stock sales that founders should consider?
10. Can you share a real-world example of a successful wind-down and what made it effective?
11. How does experiencing failure as a founder contribute to future success?

If you could give one piece of advice to a founder facing the decision to shut down, what would it be?

Guest Bio: T.J. Rodgers is a pioneering scientist, entrepreneur, and investor known for founding Cypress Semiconductor and making transformative investments in SunPower and Enphase Energy. With degrees from Dartmouth and Stanford, Rodgers has played a key role in shaping the semiconductor and renewable energy industries. He has also been active in corporate governance, leading successful proxy fights and serving on multiple boards. Beyond tech, Rodgers is a passionate winemaker and a strong advocate for laissez-faire capitalism.

Topics Discussed:

• How running a business today differs from 30 years ago
• The key questions every CEO should be able to answer
• Strategies for retaining top talent in a competitive job market
• Building a culture that fosters execution and results
• Insights from working with industry legends like John Doerr and Sequoia Ventures
• The evolving role and expectations of board members
• Critical mistakes to avoid in corporate leadership
• Lessons from turning around Enphase Energy
• Managing company debt: when to expand, clean up, or maintain it
• Balancing innovation and regulation in Silicon Valley
• The current state and future of the solar industry
• Lessons learned from a lifetime of leadership and entrepreneurship

Links & Resources:

• More about T.J. Rodgers
• Enphase Energy
• Clos de la Tech Winery

Topics Covered:

• Gil’s Career Journey – From software engineer to co-founding Merge
• Overcoming Technical Challenges – Unexpected hurdles and how the team solved them
• Strategic Integrations – How Merge prioritizes new software categories
• Unlocking Business Capabilities – The power of accessing customer data through Merge
• Hiring for Success – The key qualities Merge looks for in technical roles
• The In-Person Work Model – Pros and cons of operating without remote work
• Balancing Growth & Financial Prudence – How Merge manages spending while scaling
• Future Challenges & Opportunities – What’s next for Merge and how they’re preparing
• Lessons in Leadership – Gil’s biggest takeaways since founding Merge

Bonus Questions:

• How does Merge foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement?
• What new markets or sectors is Merge considering for expansion?
• How does Merge ensure data privacy and security?
• What KPIs are most critical to Merge’s success?
• What’s the most unexpected way a customer has used Merge’s platform?

Where to Learn More: For more on Merge and their latest updates, visit Merge.dev or connect with Gil Feig on LinkedIn.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, aspiring VC, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers invaluable insights on building successful businesses and networks while taking calculated risks.

• Vanessa’s career journey: From tech product management to venture capital.
• Lessons learned from her time at Microsoft, Box, and other leading companies.
• How to spot and capitalize on transformative insights in business.
• The critical role of a strong CEO in company success and investment decisions.
• The importance of data, analytics, and metrics in decision-making.
• Balancing risk-taking with calculated strategy in your career.
• Building and maintaining a network outside the VC world.
• Lessons from failure and advice for those navigating similar challenges.

• What led you to pursue a career in venture capital after working in product management?
• How do you evaluate leadership when considering an investment?
• Can you share a time when you took a significant career risk and how it paid off?
• How do you maintain work-life balance in a high-pressure role?
• What advice would you give to those looking to build a career in VC or entrepreneurship?

Vanessa specializes in Series A and B investments in both B2B and B2C companies. She’s passionate about leveraging technology to empower people and has led investments in innovative companies like Assembled, Mejuri, and Cleo. Her background in product management at companies like Box, Twilio, and Disney provides her with a unique perspective in evaluating businesses.

This episode was recorded during a live event on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 1895 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, California.

The event featured networking opportunities, an in-depth interview with Vanessa, and an engaging audience Q&A session.

• LinkedIn: Vanessa Larco on Vanessa Larco | LinkedIn
• Learn more about NEA: http://www.nea.com

Bio: David House, also known as Dave House, is a distinguished American engineer and computer designer renowned for his significant contributions to Intel, where he was pivotal in developing the company's microprocessor product line. He is widely recognized for coining the slogan “Intel Inside,” a marketing campaign that transformed Intel into a household name.

Career Highlights:

• BSEE from Michigan Technological University (1965)
• MSEE from Northeastern University (1969)
• Early career at Raytheon and Honeywell, focusing on computer design and communications systems
• Joined Intel in 1974, eventually becoming the General Manager of the Microcomputer Components Division
• Led Intel's transition towards a marketing-driven approach, launching the “Intel Inside” campaign
• Grew Intel's microprocessor division from $40 million to $4 billion annually
• Served as President and CEO of Bay Systems and later CEO of startup Allegro
• Current Chairman of the House Family Foundation and Chair of the Board at the Computer History Museum
• Developed a theory related to Moore’s Law, identifying an 18-month period for the doubling of transistor capacity on integrated circuits

Interview Topics:

1. Leadership
2. Decision Making
3. Managing for Results
4. Conflict Resolution
5. Meetings

Vision and Mission: Integral to leadership and decision-making with culture being a fundamental aspect, often summarized as “Culture is the rules for when there are no rules.”

Key Interview Questions:

1. Introduction:

• Dave, it's a pleasure to have an industry legend like yourself here. To get us started, could you give our audience a quick 30-second overview of your impressive career?

• During those early years, who were some of your mentors, and how did they shape your path?

• Can we talk about some of the lessons learned? For starters, should a manager focus on managing people or outcomes? And how can they best achieve the desired results?

• Can you elaborate on what you mean by overspecifying results?

• You've talked about the importance of socializing the decision-making process. Can you explain what that means and why it's beneficial?

• You've advocated for a more constructive approach to confrontation in business meetings. Can you share why and suggest alternative strategies for addressing disagreements?

• For aspiring leaders, what do you see as the two most critical roles of a CEO?

• Looking back, which career choices are you most proud of, and what life lessons can our audience glean from those experiences?

.

Key resources referenced: - The book "High Output Management." 

• Book Insights: What's changed since his first book, and who his latest editions aim to help.
• Evaluating Private Equity: Tips on assessing private equity groups, especially new firms without established ratings.
• Platform vs. Add-on: Differences, and what companies should strive to become.
• Target on the Back: Explanation of what it means for platforms in the market.
• Evaluating Offers: Balancing higher numbers with potential risks.
• Pooled Investments: Potential issues and pitfalls.
• Old Gomer: Insights into this character mentioned in his book.
• Competent Counsel: Importance during negotiations.

• LinkedIn: Adam Coffey

Join us as Adam Coffey dives deep into these topics, sharing his expertise and insights that can help you navigate the complexities of business growth and private equity!

Bio: David Hamilton Nichols is an American speaker, author, investor, and producer. Hailing from a prominent California farming family, David is best known as a global investor with a diverse portfolio spanning industrial and retail real estate, fast-growing startups, and impact investments across North America, Europe, Oceania, Asia, and Africa. His focus sectors include climate change, renewable energy, blockchain, AI, EdTech, and healthcare in Africa.

David has served as a board member and advisor for various startups and has been featured in media outlets such as Entrepreneur, The Jerusalem Post, and Yahoo Finance. He was awarded the Global Impact Champion 2020-2021 by India Needs You (INY) and was listed among the “Top 10 Investors and Investment Companies to Follow in 2022” by the International Business Times.

An accomplished speaker, David has delivered keynotes and participated in panels at prestigious venues including the Nobel Peace Center, the United Nations Association, and various family office summits. He has also been a transformational speaker in the personal development field across the United States.

David is a published poet and article writer, currently working on a book titled "Mastering the Madness: Live Your Best Life, and Create a Better World." Additionally, he is a producer and executive producer on multiple entertainment and media projects.

He is a Fellow of the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, joining illustrious individuals such as Charles Dickens, Benjamin Franklin, and Stephen Hawking. David is also an Eagle Scout from his youth in the Boy Scouts of America.

Areas covered:

• What exactly is a family office and what are the different types of family offices?
• What is the typical profile of a family that might consider establishing a family office, and how has the family office landscape evolved in recent years?
• What are some of the emerging trends in the family office space, such as direct investing and co-investments?
• How does a family office typically structure its investment strategy?
• Why might a startup seek investment from a family office?
• How important are warm introductions when approaching a family office, and how can startups cultivate those?
• What are the key differences between getting funding from a family office versus a traditional venture capital firm?
• Do venture capital firms like to work with family offices?
• How can startups effectively connect with and pitch to family offices?
• What are some common mistakes startups make when approaching family offices?

Closing: We want to thank David, for sharing your insights with us today. It has been a pleasure having him on the show. For our listeners who want to keep up with David's work, be sure to connect with him on LinkedIn.

Links:

• Connect with David Hamilton Nichols on LinkedIn

Stay tuned for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!

Guest: Brian Will, Serial Entrepreneur, Two-Time Wall Street Journal Best-Selling Author, Business and Sales Management Consultant

Bio: Brian Will has built a remarkable career creating successful companies across diverse industries. His experience in startups and Fortune 500s offers him a unique perspective on agile processes and their impact on businesses. Currently, he owns various businesses and serves on the city council in his hometown.

Key Points and Questions:

• Brian's background and how it shaped the lessons in his book: Get insights into the experiences that influenced Brian's approach to business and the advice he shares.
• Delegation and its role in business growth: Understand why delegation is essential, even if it can be challenging, and how to effectively delegate management and tasks.
• Hiring the right people, especially the COO: Learn the importance of strategic hiring and the qualities to look for in a COO.
• Key lessons for scaling a business: Discover strategies to navigate the complexities of scaling a business and ensure sustainable growth.
• Avoiding burnout during business growth: Get practical tips on how entrepreneurs can maintain their well-being while scaling their businesses.
• Personal story illustrating a significant business lesson: Hear a relatable story from Brian's book that highlights a valuable lesson for entrepreneurs.
• Preparing a business for an exit: Learn the key steps to take to ensure a successful exit when the time is right.
• Impact of writing the book on Brian's views on entrepreneurship: Explore how the process of writing the book has shaped Brian's perspective on entrepreneurship.
• Notable reader feedback: Hear about any feedback from readers that particularly resonated with Brian.
• Where to find Brian's book and follow his work: Provide links and information on how listeners can connect with Brian and access his book.
• Final words of wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs: Share Brian's parting advice for those embarking on their entrepreneurial journey.

Connect with Brian:

• Website: Home New - Brian Will Media
• LinkedIn: Brian Will | LinkedIn  Brian Will | LinkedIn

Additional Notes:

• Reference to the first interview: Encourage listeners to check out the previous interview with Brian for more context.

Key Discussion Points:

• Marsha's Journey: Marsha will share her career path, including her role in building multi-billion dollar corporations and establishing a successful venture capital firm in Africa.
• Global Perspective vs. Afro-optimism: Explore the difference between these perspectives and their influence on African funding and development.
• Hurdles to African Funding: Discuss the primary challenges hindering funding in Africa and potential solutions to address them.
• Value Destruction in Africa: Understand the concept of value destruction and its specific manifestations within the African context.
• Ecosystem Construction for Progress: Identify the key factors that drive progression through ecosystem construction in Africa.
• Government and Charitable Reliance: Analyze whether increased reliance on government and charitable support is the solution to funding challenges or if alternative approaches are more effective.
• The White Savior Complex: Define the concept of a white savior and discuss its implications for development efforts in Africa.
• French-Speaking Africa's Lag: Explore why this region lags behind others in terms of development and funding opportunities.
• Angel Investing in Cote d'Ivoire: Provide guidance for individuals interested in angel investing in countries like Cote d'Ivoire.
• Startups in French-Speaking Africa: Discuss notable startups and the factors influencing their success or challenges.
• Emerging Trends and Sectors: Highlight promising investment and growth opportunities within African economies.
• Secondaries Market in Africa: Explain the existence and functioning of a secondaries market in Africa.
• Afro Hubs and Afrilabs: Understand the roles of these organizations in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa.
• Learning More: Provide resources and advice for those interested in further exploring African funding and ecosystem development.

Call to Action:

• Connect with Marsha Wulff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marshawulff/

Explore LoftyInc Capital Management: LoftyInc Capital – Backing early stage Afropreneurs building tech-enabled solutions for the "everyday economy"

Kristi Herold is the founder and CEO of JAM, a multi-million-dollar global business that has connected

millions of people through play since its inception as one of the largest adult recreational sports leagues

in the world. The JAM team has produced and delivered over 4,000 playful corporate events, in over 30

countries since the summer of 2020 and the JAM team consults organizations helping them integrate

fun and play into their “workPLAYce culture”. JAM has been awarded “Canada’s Most Admired Culture

Award,” and certified as “Great Places to Work – Canada” multiple times.

Kristi is the best-selling author of It Pays to PLAY – How Play Improves Business Culture, a rich resource

to help organizations playfully connect with their teams and improve productivity, retention, and

workplace culture. Her vision is to get 1 million people playing annually!

Awards and Accolades:

Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures – Emerging Award (2022)

Canada's Most Powerful Women - Top 100 (2020)

RBC / Women of Influence - Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards - Momentum - Top 3 (2020)

Sport & Social Industry Association - "Industry Impact Award" winner (2020)

Great Places to Work - Canada award (2019)

Governor General's "Diamond Jubliee Award" in recognition of contribution to community (2009)

Features:

Forbes Magazine, "Create Teamwork By Doing This,’” (2020) https://www.forbes.com/sites/stephanieburns/2020/03/05/create-teamwork-by-doing-this/#5c10c9c35aff

Fast Company, "Corporate Team Building," (2019) https://www.fastcompany.com/90510635/without-team-sports-this-recreational-league-company-is-still-committed-to-boosting-spirits

Toronto Star, “Kristi Herold is all about team spirit,” (2021) https://www.thestar.com/life/together/people/2021/02/28/kristi-herold-is-all-about-team-spirit-here-the-ceo-talks-sports-play-and-her-picks-for-the-top-toronto-online-fitness-classes.html

We talk about:

When you look to acquire a business, what are your minimum expectations for the business you will acquire?

How do you know if a target company’s culture fits yours when acquiring a company?

What are some strategies for identifying and mitigating potential risks in a main street/lower mid-market business acquisition?

Would you happen to have suggestions on going into a negotiation that you can share with us?

What are some best practices for communicating with employees and maintaining morale during the M&A process?

How do you ensure a smooth transition of key personnel and talent retention post-transaction

What role does strategic planning and long-term vision play in the success of a business's mergers and acquisitions?

How important is it to join mastermind groups and organizations outside of work?

And much more

Connect with Kristi 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristi-herold/

https://jamgroup.com/

• Dario Fusato: CEO of Savvly
• Tony Derossi: Co-founder of Savvly

About the Guests:

• Dario Fusato is the CEO of Savvly, a platform revolutionizing personal pensions and long-term financial security with market-driven solutions. He has extensive experience in building fintech solutions aimed at removing financial uncertainty.

• Tony Derossi is the co-founder of Savvly, an online platform designed to optimize retirement savings through innovative risk-sharing algorithms. With a background in insurance, technology, and strategic consulting, Tony brings a wealth of knowledge to the fintech and retirement planning industries.

Episode Overview: In this episode, we dive into the innovative approach Savvly is taking to reshape retirement planning and financial security. Dario and Tony share their journey from successful corporate careers to entrepreneurship, the challenges of pioneering a new market, and their vision for the future of Savvly. The discussion covers key lessons learned, strategies for balancing innovation with risk management, and the importance of building a community around a startup.

Key Questions Discussed:

1. What inspired Dario and Tony to transition from corporate careers to founding Savvly?
2. How do their corporate experiences influence the way they build and scale Savvly?
3. What advice do they have for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those transitioning from corporate roles?
4. What are the unique challenges of innovating in the fintech space for retirement solutions?
5. What are Savvly's long-term goals and how do they plan to achieve them?

Connect with the Guests:

• Dario Fusato: LinkedIn
• Tony Derossi: LinkedIn
• Savvly Website: www.savvly.com

Closing Notes: If you’re interested in learning more about Savvly’s approach to financial longevity and retirement planning, be sure to visit their website or connect with Dario and Tony on LinkedIn.

• John Lenker, Marketing Strategist & Communications Artist at LENKER
• Kevin deLaplante, Philosopher & Marketing Specialist at LENKER

Episode Summary:

Join us for a fascinating conversation with John Lenker and Kevin deLaplante, two experts from LENKER, as they delve into the world of marketing, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship.

John, a seasoned marketing strategist with a passion for ethical marketing, shares his insights on developing and promoting products and services that resonate with audiences. Kevin, a former philosopher turned marketing specialist, brings a unique perspective on critical thinking and decision-making in the business world.

Together, they discuss:

• Their career journeys and how they arrived at their current roles at LENKER
• The importance of competitive analysis and effective research when exploring new business ideas
• The role of AI in idea research and decision-making
• Key factors entrepreneurs should consider when evaluating marketing and business opportunities
• The balance between AI and human judgment in business
• Essential questions entrepreneurs should ask themselves before pursuing a new venture
• Lessons learned from both successful and unsuccessful ventures
• The unique challenges and opportunities of working with Bitcoin millionaires
• How to qualify a business and conduct a comprehensive market opportunity analysis
• Strategies for staying ahead of industry trends and advancements
• The impact of effective competitive analysis on business success
• The future of AI integration in business decision-making
• Risk management strategies for entrepreneurs

Resources:

• LENKER website: https://lenker.com
• Kevin deLaplante's website: https://kevindelaplante.com/my-writing
• The Argument Ninja Podcast: [Link to podcast]

Call to Action:

If you're looking to enhance your marketing strategies, refine your critical thinking skills, or navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, this episode is a must-listen!

Connect with John & Kevin:

• John Lenker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnlenker/
• Kevin deLaplante on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevindelaplante/

Mark is the co-founder of Dream VC, an entrepreneur, ecosystem builder and early-stage investor in Emerging Markets. Mark has worked within VCs in the UK, US, Europe and Africa and actively advises, coaches and mentors several very early stage West & East African startups - who have gone on to raise upwards of $10m in Venture Financing, and joined programs like Google's Black Founders Fund Africa, PioneerApp, TechStars and Y Combinator. Mark is passionate about empowering the private sector to take responsibility for making people's lives better and is a big advocate for Consumer and Enterprise Software Startups as mediums to improve lives around the world. Mark is also a co-founder of Dream VC, a leading remote program, helping founders, entrepreneurs and working professionals across the African continent and among the diaspora to break into the Venture Capital industry as emerging investors.

Beyond these activities, Mark is an active startup mentor in 9+ Accelerators and Incubators at Startupbootcamp, Impact Hub Lagos, Seedstars, Founder Institute and Village Capital. Mark is also a startup mentor with FasterCapital and StartupLoungeAfrica.

Dream VC and the mission you are on.

The current investment landscape in Africa and some key trends shaping it?

The role of diaspora investment in driving economic development and entrepreneurship in Africa?

The unique opportunities that investors can find in African markets compared to other regions?

How do political stability and regulatory environments impact investment decisions in Africa?

How necessary is local knowledge and partnerships when investing in African markets?

What are some key resources or sources of information that investors can leverage to stay informed about investment opportunities and developments in Africa?

Connect with Mark 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markkleyner/

https://www.dream-vc.com/

Introduction:

• Welcome Note: The host introduces Sidharth Saxena, highlighting his role as the CEO and founder of Docyt, an innovative all-in-one financial management solution for small businesses.
• Episode Overview: Brief overview of the topics to be covered, including real-time bookkeeping, the role of AI in small business operations, and insights into building a successful tech startup.

Main Discussion:

1. Background and Journey:

• Sid’s Story: Sid shares his background and the journey leading up to the founding of Docyt, detailing his career path and experiences.

• Navigating Challenges: Sid discusses how he navigated building a business in a field where he wasn't initially considered an expert and the strategies he employed to gain credibility and expertise.

• Benefits for Small Businesses: Exploration of the advantages of real-time bookkeeping for small businesses, emphasizing why it’s crucial for efficiency and financial accuracy.

• Transformative Impact: Sid shares his insights on how AI will continue to transform the operational aspects of small businesses, making them more efficient and competitive.

• Driving Innovation: A look at the Docyt team and their roles in fostering AI innovation in small business operations, highlighting key contributors and their expertise.

• Further Engagement: Information on how listeners can connect with Sid and learn more about his work and Docyt’s offerings.

Website  Best AI-Bookkeeping Software for Multiple Businesses | Docyt

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sidharthsaxena/

With a track record spanning decades, Oleg's journey in the tech industry has been nothing short of remarkable. From founding CTO of Global-e (Nasdaq: GLBE) to his current venture, Trueli, Oleg's career is a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of tech entrepreneurship.

At Global-e, Oleg played a pivotal role in solving significant challenges for millions worldwide, culminating in one of the most celebrated IPOs of 2021. Now, with Trueli, Oleg aims to tackle another pressing issue – rescuing memories from the digital clutter that plagues our smartphones.

1. Approaching New Ventures: Oleg sheds light on how the anticipation of an exit from a previous venture impacts the approach to starting a new company. Drawing from his wealth of experience, he discusses the importance of strategic planning and foresight in navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.
2. Evolution of Startup Culture: Having witnessed the evolution of startups over the last two decades, Oleg shares his observations on how working at a startup has changed. From organizational structures to technological advancements, Oleg provides valuable insights into adapting to the ever-changing startup environment.
3. Understanding Your Product: Oleg emphasizes the significance of thoroughly understanding the product or service you are selling. By delving into the importance of product-market fit and customer-centric approaches, Oleg offers invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

To learn more about Oleg Golynker and his ventures, connect with him on LinkedIn or visit Trueli's website, 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/oleggolynker/

https://www.trueli.me/

Episode Description: In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, our host dives deep into the world of AI in marketing with expert Raj Prasad. With over 25 years of marketing experience, including roles as a CEO and Fractional CMO, Raj has developed a deep understanding of brand development and revenue growth. Join us as Raj shares insights from his impressive career and explores the transformative impact of AI on marketing strategies. From search engine optimization to targeted advertising, learn how AI is revolutionizing the way marketers understand consumer behavior and optimize their campaigns. Whether you’re a small business owner or a seasoned marketer, this episode is packed with valuable advice on integrating AI into your marketing efforts.

Key Questions and Topics:

1. Career Journey: Raj, can you tell our audience a little bit about your career up to this point?
2. AI in Marketing Applications: What are some specific applications of AI in marketing that you find most impactful?
3. SEO and Content Optimization: Can you discuss the impact of AI on search engine optimization (SEO) and content optimization?
4. Consumer Behavior Analysis: How has AI changed the way marketers understand and analyze consumer behavior?
5. Revolutionary AI Tools: Can you share examples of AI-powered tools or platforms that have revolutionized marketing strategies?
6. Future of Targeted Advertising: How do you see AI shaping the future of targeted advertising and audience segmentation?
7. Campaign Performance and ROI: In what ways does AI contribute to improving marketing campaign performance and ROI?
8. Social Media Marketing: How can marketers leverage AI to optimize their social media marketing efforts?
9. Challenges and Limitations: What challenges or limitations do marketers face when implementing AI in their strategies?
10. AI for Small Businesses: How can small businesses or startups with limited resources benefit from AI in their marketing efforts?
11. Future Role of Marketers: How do you see AI influencing the role of marketers in the future?
12. Advice for Marketers: What advice would you give to marketers who are considering integrating AI into their marketing strategies?

About Raj Prasad: Raj Prasad has over 25 years of marketing experience, including roles as a CEO and Fractional CMO. He has developed a deep understanding of brand development and revenue growth, focusing on using a range of marketing tools, such as PPC, SEO, Influencer Marketing, and Event Marketing, to build and strengthen brands. A key achievement was leading the product management for an Online Franchise Dealer Portal, an innovative B2B subscription model, which generated $24 million in revenue over four years. His approach centers around implementing effective digital marketing strategies, contributing to enhanced brand recognition and business performance. This experience is well-suited for roles requiring a strategic yet hands-on approach to digital marketing, where data-driven decisions and a clear vision are essential for driving growth.

Connect with Raj Prasad:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajpras/ Raj Prasad | LinkedIn  

Listen Now: Tune in to this insightful conversation with Raj Prasad and discover how AI can transform your marketing strategies for better performance and results.

Make sure to subscribe to The Silicon Valley Podcast for more expert insights and discussions on the latest trends in technology and business. Don’t forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your network!

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with J.P. Keating, a prominent figure in the supply chain and mobility sectors. J.P. shares his extensive career history and provides deep insights into the rapidly evolving world of supply chain technology, mobility startups, and the complexities of navigating these industries. From discussing the sexiness of supply chain tech to addressing the critical challenges and sustainability considerations, J.P. offers a comprehensive look at the present and future of these dynamic fields.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Career Background:
   • P. Keating gives an overview of his career journey and experiences that have shaped his expertise in supply chain and mobility sectors.
2. Supply Chain Technology:
   • Why supply chain tech is one of the most exciting fields in technology today.
   • The impact of recent advancements and why people should be excited about this sector.
3. Evolving Mobility:
   • Navigating the complexity of mobility startups amidst advancements in autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and other technologies.
4. Regulations and Policies:
   • The importance of understanding regulations and policies when building or investing in companies within the supply chain and mobility spaces.
5. Challenges in the Sector:
   • Unique challenges faced by startups and investors in supply chain and mobility compared to other sectors.
6. Technology Evolution:
   • How technologies like human-less electric cargo planes evolve compared to software MVPs and iterative testing.
7. Resilience to Disruptions:
   • Assessing the resilience of supply chain startups to disruptions caused by global events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
8. Sustainability Initiatives:
   • Evaluating the sustainability practices of companies in the supply chain and mobility industries.
9. Economic Impact:
   • The importance of supply chain and mobility to the overall economics of cities and countries.
   • How the adoption of new technologies can impact GDP.
10. Global Interest:
    • Identifying the regions and stakeholders most interested in supply chain and mobility technologies.
11. Philosophy on Success:
    • P. shares his philosophy on "stacking bills without anyone knowing who you are" and its implications for business success.
12. Exit Strategies:
    • Discussing the preferred exit strategies for companies in the supply chain and mobility sectors.
    • IPO vs. earlier round exits.
13. Value to Founders:
    • Why founders should be excited to have J.P. and his team on their cap table.
14. Success Stories:
    • P. shares a compelling story of a company he worked with or one in the supply chain and mobility space.
15. Connect with J.P.:
    • How listeners can learn more about J.P. Keating and his current projects.

Listener Takeaways:

• Gain insights into the cutting-edge developments in supply chain and mobility technologies.
• Understand the challenges and opportunities in navigating these rapidly changing industries.
• Learn about the importance of sustainability and regulatory knowledge in building successful startups.
• Discover the economic impact and global interest in supply chain and mobility advancements.
• Hear real-world success stories and practical advice from an industry expert.

Resources:

• P. Keating's LinkedIn

In this episode, we dive into the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy & Impact Investing (NPO) with distinguished panel members Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke, Ms. Ayodele Olojede, Ms. Elizabeth Oguegbu, and Mr. Tola Adekunle-Johnson. They share insights into the NPO's objectives, strategies, and initiatives aimed at fostering job creation and economic growth in Nigeria.

• Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke: Chairperson of the NPO, providing a brief overview of her role and background.
• Ms. Ayodele Olojede: Representative from Wema Bank and NPO Implementing Committee member, sharing her expertise and involvement.
• Ms. Elizabeth Oguegbu: Representative from Access Bank and NPO Implementing Committee member, introducing her role and contributions.

• The origin and evolution of the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy & Impact Investing.
• The role and significance of the NPO in Nigeria's economic landscape.

• How the NPO collaborates with the Vice President's office to streamline efforts.
• The integration of public and private sector initiatives.

• Primary objectives of the NPO and the strategies in place to achieve them.
• Key focus areas and intended outcomes.

• Developing a robust pipeline of companies.
• Resources and support required to scale up job creation efforts.

• Definition and criteria for women recipients (founders, co-founders, advisors).
• Long-term goals and impacts of this allocation criterion.

• Conditions and potential matching investment requirements tied to grants.
• Efficiency in deploying grants to ensure timely job creation.

• Specific sectors targeted for capital deployment.
• Rationale behind the selection of these sectors.

• Possibilities of other African countries adopting a similar model.
• Expected outcomes and benefits for the broader African continent.

• Opportunities for Silicon Valley investors to partner with and invest in the NPO initiative.
• Ways to foster collaboration and mutual growth.

• Plans for companies to expand into new markets.
• Strategies for growth and international expansion.

• Assurance mechanisms for proper utilization of grant money.
• Governance structures tied to financial assistance.

• Information companies need to provide to secure funding.
• Criteria and eligibility requirements for applicants.

• Additional support provided to companies beyond funding.
• Resources and mentorship available to aid business growth.

• Importance of technology and innovation in the NPO's investment strategy.
• Future trends and opportunities.

Overview: In this episode, we dive deep into the extraordinary journey of John Hittler, a CEO Trusted Advisor, 9-time Founder and CEO, funding source, author, TEDx speaker, and father of seven. John shares his wealth of experience, insights into leadership, and strategies for balancing a demanding career with personal life.

Discussion Points:

1. Career History

• John provides an overview of his career path, highlighting key milestones and achievements.

• As a busy professional with multiple roles, John discusses how he efficiently manages his time and responsibilities.

• John shares notable challenges and setbacks he has faced in his career and the strategies he used to overcome them.

• Reflecting on the companies he has started, John recounts some memorable experiences and lessons learned.

• John explains his motivation for founding Evoking Genius after successfully starting nine other companies.

• Insight into the specific methodologies or frameworks John utilizes with his clients to drive success.

• Discussing the key characteristics that differentiate elite leaders from the average person and what makes them successful.

• What a first session with John looks like and how he sets the stage for productive coaching relationships.

• John's approach to identifying and leveraging unique strengths and talents within an organization.

• Strategies for supporting leaders in maintaining balance and preventing burnout in high-pressure environments.

• Anonymous success stories showcasing how John has helped clients achieve their goals.

• How John stays informed and ensures his insights and strategies remain relevant in the ever-evolving business landscape.

• Advice for aspiring leaders or entrepreneurs on fostering innovation and creativity within their teams.

• Addressing common challenges and misconceptions encountered when working with organizations and how John handles them.

• Exploring common misconceptions people have about CEOs and the realities of their roles.

• Information on how to learn more about John and his current projects, along with contact details for further engagement.

Ep 228 Unlocking Venture Capital Insights with Brian Bell: Strategies, SPVs, and Future Trends

Brian Bell Bio

Managing Partner at Team Ignite Ventures | ex AI at AWS, Microsoft, and several startups.

Main Discussion

1. Background and Experience

• Brian’s Journey: Brian shares a brief introduction to his background, career path, and how he became a venture capitalist.

• Evolution of Venture Capital: Brian discusses the evolving landscape of venture capital, including current trends and future outlooks.

• Starting in VC: Practical advice from Brian for those aspiring to enter the venture capital industry.

• Investing and Managing SPVs: Insights into Brian’s experience with SPVs, including the benefits and challenges.

• Future Value-Add: Brian’s perspective on where the most significant value-add for venture capitalists will lie in the future from both the investor and company perspectives.

• Importance of VC Brand: Discussion on the future significance of having a venture capital brand on a company's cap table.

• Tracking Investments: How angel investors typically keep track of their portfolio companies.
• Effective Communication: Examples of how companies effectively maintain communication with their investors.

• Timing and Strategy: Brian’s thoughts on why some founders wait until the last minute to seek capital or consider selling their companies.

• Implications of Write-Offs: The impact of writing off an investment in terms of taxes, returns, and LP reports.

• Types of Reports: Insights into the types of reports venture capitalists typically provide to their limited partners.

• Advantages of Newsletters: The benefits for both venture capitalists and founders in maintaining a newsletter.

• Marketing Efforts: Brian’s approach to managing his marketing efforts and building his personal brand.

• Pros and Cons of Moving: Brian shares his experiences and thoughts on relocating from Silicon Valley, including the pros and cons of his new living situation.

• Staying Connected: Information on how to learn more about Brian and his current ventures, including the best ways to connect with him.

Connect with Brian 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bblinkedin/

Subscribe to Brian’s substack  https://brianrbell.substack.com/

Leadership philosophy: Inform, Enable, Empower - and witness the magic.

Mission: building the "3 Founder Unicorns" community.

Slogan: quoting Alexander Hamilton -- as he allegedly sang: I am not throwing away my shot!

Armed with degrees in Mechanical, Electrical, Nano, Bio, and Software Engineering from prestigious institutions in the USA, Germany, and Iran, coupled with fluency in English, German, and Persian, my perspective is detailed and holistic as well as local and global. My insatiable curiosity about human psychology, on top of my background, afford me a unique vantage point on the interplay of engineering, science, and the mosaic of human aspiration, desire, and motivation.

My track record in the productization of emerging technologies, transformative leadership impacting hundreds of teams at Google and beyond, and an insatiable curiosity for historical reflection and future forecasting, form the cornerstone of my fascination with '3 Founder Unicorns'. A vision of a future where innovation is democratized, enabling the creation of highly profitable startups with minimal capital, at unprecedented speeds. Hence I am building and leading the 'Gen-AI-Enabled Founder Community', where super savvy, creative and capable entrepreneurs gather to teach each other and learn from each other how to build their own Virtual Workforce.

In this weeks episode, we talk about

How Ai is impacting Silicon Valley

The Future of Venture Capitalism and how it will never be the same

The opportunities for everyone with the power of AI

Should we afraid of AI

And Much more…

Connect with Sara on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarazare/

Vincent Monteparte serves as a Board Director and Chair of the Audit Committee for Dalrada Financial Corporation (DFCO), a Healthcare, Technology, and Clean Energy Company. Additionally, he holds Board Director positions for Measurabl, a global sustainability SaaS Software company, and Slingshot Aerospace, a computer vision AI SaaS software company for the commercial/government satellite industry. He also serves on the boards of Pepperdine University Graziadio School of Business and the College of Business and Engineering for Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.

With a background spanning mergers & acquisitions for the middle market, board leadership & governance, market expertise & positioning, and strategic business investment & planning, Vincent brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Here are some key questions we explore with Vincent:

1. How early should a business owner start to talk to an investment banker for planning the sale of their business, and when should a company start to prepare for an exit?
2. How important is it for a founder to plan for an exit?
3. How does one think about the valuation of their company?
4. What are some warning signs that an investment banker can see that may indicate a deal will not work?
5. After the sale is complete, what do you want your client to say about you as an investment banker?
6. How will investment banking change with the addition of new technology?

We also touch on the evolution of investment banking over the years and explore the potential competition between Venture Capitalists and family offices for deals in the future.

Join us for this enlightening discussion with Vincent Monteparte as we uncover the intricacies of investment banking and gain valuable insights into the world of finance and deal-making.

Connect with Vincent Monteparte on LinkedIn

Intel Corporation was founded in 1968 by Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore, who left Fairchild Semiconductor to start their own company. In the early years from 1970 to 1978, Intel went through major inflection points that helped transform it from a startup to an industry leader.

Ron Whittier, who joined Intel in 1970 as an engineering manager, played a key role in navigating many of these pivotal moments. This included instilling the pioneering "Intel Culture" driven by Andy Grove, expanding into new product lines like microprocessors, raising funds through Intel's first public offering in 1972, and then rapidly scaling up design and manufacturing capabilities.

From 1978 to 2000, Intel experienced explosive growth riding the PC revolution and the emergence of the world-wide web. Ron helped the company successfully navigate through additional inflection points like improving manufacturing processes under Craig Barrett's leadership, the famous decision to exit the DRAM business to focus on microprocessors, developing major marketing campaigns like "Intel Inside", transitioning to being a sole microprocessor supplier, and forming new groups like the Intel Architecture Labs and Intel Capital.

Through recognizing and deftly navigating these many inflection points, Ron and Intel's leadership team transformed the company into a global technology powerhouse.

We talked about

• How did Intel balance looking for outside ideas and developing things internally?
• When you listen to historians talk about the history of Intel, what are they missing or not getting 100% correct?
• What words do you want to say to the next generation of Intel employees and entrepreneurs out there?
• Did you ever look at the other companies in Silicon Valley and think that their businesses were being run in ways that you wished to model?

And much more…

In the ever-evolving world of investment and entrepreneurship, few voices resonate with the depth of experience and insight quite like that of Martin Tobias. With a career spanning decades and ventures across various industries, Martin brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the table.

A Passion for the Formation Stage

"I have always been excited in the formation stage of things," Martin shares. "The early stuff. Who is the customer? What is the product? And how do we sell it? That is the part I like." For Martin, the early stages of a venture present the most intriguing challenges and opportunities. It's where decisions are made, bets are placed, and the course of action is charted. Over the years, Martin has been at the helm of numerous ventures, raising over $500M in equity, project finance, and working capital.

Investor, Mentor, Entrepreneur

Beyond his role as a CEO and investor, Martin's entrepreneurial journey is peppered with diverse experiences. From owning bars and restaurants to venturing into renewable energy and technology investing, Martin's portfolio reflects his insatiable curiosity and drive to solve complex problems. He has personally invested in over 70 startups and led several through venture funds, all while engaging in charitable endeavors through the Martin Tobias Family Foundation.

Exploring Industry Dynamics

In our conversation with Martin, we delved into several key areas shaping the investment and entrepreneurship landscape:

1. Evolution of Preseed and Seed Stages: Martin shared insights into how these stages have evolved over the years and the implications for founders navigating early-stage funding.
2. Enhanced Connections Between Founders and Investors: We discussed emerging solutions and trends facilitating better connections between founders and investors, essential for fostering successful partnerships.
3. AI in Investor Meetings: Martin shed light on how founders are leveraging AI to prepare for investor meetings, streamlining the pitching process and unlocking new efficiencies.
4. Opportunities Amidst Global Challenges: Despite the current global landscape's challenges, Martin remains optimistic about the unique opportunities it presents for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Connect with Martin Tobias

To learn more about Martin's work and insights, you can connect with him on LinkedIn or visit Incisive VC, where he continues to make an indelible mark on the world of investment and entrepreneurship.

• LinkedIn: Martin Tobias
• Incisive VC: Explore Here

In a world brimming with possibilities, Martin Tobias stands as a beacon of wisdom and inspiration, guiding entrepreneurs and investors alike on their journey towards success.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeljfirestone/

Fire Capital Management, LLC is a boutique investment management company that helps people achieve their dreams. We empower our clients to re-imagine what is possible to accomplish with their investments, social impact goals, and family legacy. The firm offers private wealth management and multi-family office services to HNW individuals, families, and foundations. Fire Capital Management is strategically headquartered in the heart of innovation economy, San Francisco, CA.

Sophie Tsang, MBA

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophietsang/

Sophie’s Civil Engineering background and marketing expertise contribute to her broad understanding and high efficiency in marketing real estate properties. She has been consistently a top performer since 2005, and personally ranks the highest 1% by volume of all Silicon Valley Realtors. Also a WSJ Real Trends 2022 America's Best Honoree.

As a seasoned negotiator, Sophie’s no-nonsense marketing system and meticulous attention to details have been key success factors. She is known as the The Fixer, or Miracle Worker, frequently helps sellers sell their homes when other agents had failed or given up. She helps buyers get into homes when they previously struggled. 20+ years in Real Estate, Sophie has honed her skills on getting the best possible results for her clients. Her trusted network of vendors and use of cutting-edge technology ensure each step of each transaction is executed to achieve next level result!

Sophie is a proud parent of 2 Eagle Scouts (in college). She has done guest speaking at Faith Radio, and written a column for World Journal Newspaper to share her Real Estate knowledge. Sophie is a Palo Alto Rotarian and a Paul Harris Fellow, also a Golden Gate Keeper (Golden Gate National Park Conservancy).

Jeanie (Kim) Colclough

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcolcloughtravel/

In my professional role as a travel advisor, I specialize in creating soft adventure experiences for my clients. My favorite types of trips to book include:

Cultural Immersion Vacations — These trips are designed to get travelers interacting with local people, experiencing cultural events and dining on authentic cuisine.

Culinary Tours — Perfect for foodies and wine lovers, culinary tours allow travelers to experience the unique flavor of their destination.

Active Vacations

As I carve my own path within the travel industry, I have made this quote my motto: "Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind." These words of Seneca define the need for travel as part of our human experience.

When we book a vacation to a new destination, whether it's a tropical island filled with the potential for relaxation or an ancient city built for learning and exploring, we know we will be changed by the experience. Travelers come home feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, while also yearning for more at the same time.

Contact me today to book your next adventure! I look forward to helping you every step of the way.

We discuss:

What are the most common mistakes people on the panel see people make as soon as they have a large sum of money? 

Depending on the exit price, what are some options a seller must know to do the right things to create generational wealth or maintain the exit for a needed amount of time?

After they exit their companies or sell a part of them, many people want to diversify their wealth; what are some ways that they choose to do this?

What issues do they face if they are looking to invest in real estate?

What about if they want to start investing in real estate projects? Are there any problems they might face?

If an owner doesn’t properly plan before the sale, what can they do afterward to mitigate taxes?

The most common thing owners say the first thing they will do after selling a business is to go on a trip. What are things they should consider?

If there are economic changes, how would they impact the new life of the former business owner?  What should a person think or do if their assets from the sale significantly drop?

What about options for living abroad?  What are the first steps someone could take to try life overseas out?

https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenmtraversi/

I work with CEOs that are going through transitions or disruptive stages due to M&A activity, growth, upscaling markets or are looking to create value, including start-ups. I am a revenue optimization expert that helps leadership make the right decision for solution & client development as well as integration & cross-functional alignment for efficient revenue growth.  I have successfully helped companies ranging in size from start-up to >$100 million as well as those looking to monetize assets such as TMP/Monster.com, Ticketmaster, and Revolution Health Group. Call Me When You Have: • Rapid growth (or market adjustments) which create distraction, missing goal targets, etc. • Turnover with customers or teams, interrupting operations. • A need for integrating departments, increasing efficiencies, and reducing department friction ensuring sales, marketing and client delivery play nice in the sandbox. • A startup needing support in terms of growth and addressing the foundational aspects of a changing organization, including HR/benefits. I work with clients to uncover the core issues/opportunities, set strategy, and execute work as either project consultant, in an ongoing engagement or as a fractional role.

Angelo DeSando

https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-desando-0b19633b/

Commercial Insurance Specialist - Workers’ Comp Insurance Expert - Exclusive Programs

DeSando Insurance Services was formed in 1978 by my father, Mark DeSando. I began my career at DeSando Insurance in 2006 assisting my father in varies aspects of the insurance business. I quickly discovered my passion for helping clients protect what matter most to them. In 2008 I transitioned our firm from a captive company to an independent insurance brokerage. I now manage DeSando Insurance Services full time where I have grown the business by offering the best possible solutions unmatched by any of my competitors. I take pride in the integrity and professionalism our firm offers to the marketplace. I greatly appreciate every referral as this has been the building blocks of our foundation.  My product of expertise is in workers compensation. I can offer innovative exclusive products that will provide the best solutions for the staffing, construction, manufacturing, distribution, and other blue-collar industries. With this wealth of knowledge, it has helped me dominate and broaden our expertise appetite to include general liability, commercial property, commercial auto, bonding, professional liability and WRAP policies. I take pride in being family owned since our inception and I am grateful it has grown to a second-generation company. My goal is to continue to dominate with our expansion while never forgetting that every client and member of our company is part of the DeSando family. Please contact me if you share my same vision and would like to be apart of the family either as a client, employee, or business partner. We are always expanding!

John Morada

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnvmorada/

As an S&O and M&A executive, I love what I do to grow existing corporations.  And I am equally as passionate about growing the next generation of corporations. If you are a startup, I would love to hear what you are working on. Please check out my investing requirements at https://bayangels.com/requirements/ since I am a member of the Bay Angels investing group. If you are a VC looking to get into the Bay Angels deal flow then please send me an email to partnerships@bayangels.com. Or if you have a business that you think would be useful to Bay Angels, I would enjoy hearing from you. Let’s start a thread at partnerships@bayangels.com.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thinktyler/

Have you ever felt like your business is capable of more but just can't seem to break through to the next level? I'm Tyler, and I turn those "almost there" businesses into flourishing success stories. With more than two decades in finance and entrepreneurship, I specialize in propelling businesses with revenues between $1 million and $15 million to new heights. My Approach: One Clear Path Imagine a system so clear and effective that your business's financial uncertainties turn into milestones of success. That's One Clear Path for you. It's a six-step journey tailored to stabilize and amplify your cash flow. Our monthly color-coded scorecard (green for thriving, yellow for caution, and red for critical areas) simplifies complex financial data, ensuring we're always moving forward. How I Propel Your Business: * Transforming inconsistent cash flow into a consistent positive cash flow * Cultivating financial strategies for both short-term and long-term goals. * Elevating your profit margins beyond just 'good enough'. * Aligning your business's financial trajectory with your personal vision. * Streamlining financial processes for efficiency and innovation. * Strategic financial forecasting to prepare you for what's next. * Personalized, experience-backed advice to tackle your unique business challenges. My Credentials: * Founded a CPA firm to grew to 200 clients that led to a successful exit. * Grew a staffing firm from $5 million to a $25 million in revenue that led to a successful exit. * Served as a financial leader in a major non-profit organization. * Active associate board member at a Northern California Credit Union. * Advisory roles in multiple multi-million dollar companies.

Jane Beule

https://www.linkedin.com/in/janebeule/

Founder and CEO, Griffin Black, Inc. | NAPFA Registered Financial Advisor | CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional Over the years I have worked on Wall Street and I have worked in tech, but it is my current job that I find most fulfilling. Griffin Black, the company I founded in 2001, is a Registered Investment Advisor. We bring together a love of finance and passion for leveraging technology to help individuals and families make the most of their money and live the kind of lives that they envision. Delivering great financial advice and service, however, requires more than good tools and technical expertise. It takes a real understanding of each individual client’s values, personality, and long-term goals. This human element is what distinguishes a great advisor from the pack, and what enables the creation of a personal financial strategy that has the potential to be implementable and fulfilling, as well as financially sound. Are you hesitant to talk to a human advisor because you think it will be too expensive? (Hint: it needn’t be.) Are you looking for financial support and advice that is truly you-centric? Are you overwhelmed and confused by all of the automated financial tools and investment choices that are being pitched to you these days? If so, we’d be happy to hear from you.

Sheri Pan, CFP®

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheripan/

As the founder and CEO, Sheri brings her breadth of knowledge as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner to clients, so they can make informed decisions when planning their financial future. Also, her Master’s Degree in Taxation gives her a unique advantage to advice on tax planning. Her many years of experience and education offer her clients many benefits, as Sheri is able to tackle multifaceted tax situations and minimize liabilities. This enhanced expertise makes her an asset to those seeking in-depth tax advice during their careers, before and after retirement, and while they form estate plans. Prior to founding Pantheon Wealth Planning, Sheri Pan took a position at Morgan Stanley. Before long, she realized that while she enjoyed asset management, something was missing in her work. Instead of serving clients through a one-dimensional approach, she came to appreciate the value of building a comprehensive and personalized financial plan to address all of her client’s needs. Sheri’s primary focus is to work with high net worth individuals and families, business owners, executives, and pre-retirees. She’s also a specialist in small business succession planning and employee benefit plans. Her primary role is to be your personal CFO, affording you a stress-free and simplified financial portfolio. Sheri H. Pan is an LPL Registered Representative with and securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.For hyperlinks to FINRA and SIPC, please refer to website section above. Third-party posts found on this profile do not reflect the view of LPL Financial and have not been reviewed by LPL Financial as to accuracy or completeness. She may only discuss and/or transact business wih residents of the following states: AZ, CA, MD, OH, TX, UT, VA, and WI. Financial planning offered through Pantheon Wealth Planning, a Registered Investment Advisor and a separate entity.

Anna Vorontsova

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-vorontsova-65a4213b/

CFA Candidate (level I, June 2016) Business Evaluation, Investment Analysis, Corporate Finance, Financial Planning Master in Economics (2012, Moscow, Russia)

We talk about

Let's start with each person on the panel giving a 30-second intro on who they are and their focus.

If someone is looking to sell their company, how long in advance should they start to prepare? Is one year enough time, or how long?

What needs to be done before one decides to put one’s company up for sale?  In each of your professions, how would you help a seller prepare?  How long beforehand would this take place?

How does waiting to talk to a financial planner or anyone else on the panel impact the sellers’ options?

What key questions should a wealth advisor ask a seller about their transaction when they talk?

Why is the pre-deal valuation important, and what does it involve?

What are the steps business owners can take pre-deal to reduce taxes during transactions? 

How can valuation help with that?

How does one “clean up” their financials?

What are some accounting “tricks” the business owners might try to play to make their financial numbers look better?

From working with clients or personal stories. With an exit, do you ever hear people saying that they wish they had prepared more, that they wished they had done things differently?

We talked about preparing for a sale in many areas, but what about the mental and emotional areas that one needs to prepare? How does this come into play when preparing a business?

Considering the unique dynamics involved, how do you approach preparing a family-owned business for sale?

What story can you share that has a lesson that our audience can take away with them?

Amman Ahmed is a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse background in e-business, venture-backed startups, and brand building. With a keen eye for identifying market niches and driving business growth, Amman brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussion.

Background

The Story of "Petflix", a crazy idea born in Manchester and acquired in Hollywood for 8 figures. Founded by Amman Ahmed, who built 'The 'Netflix for Pets' - relaxing Music and TV created in house based on 8 years of research. RelaxMyDog and RelaxMyCat are the two brands now consumed by 50 million pets around the world.

With an insanely wild idea, Amman would get laughed at by investors so his only option was to use his own money of £1000 to get this idea off the ground in a lean way. 

By creating his own researching, his own team of international producers and marketers. He scaled the business to a multiple million pound international business without investors. Until catching the eye of a major Rap/Hip-hop record label in Hollywood who went on to buy the business. 

RelaxMyDog and RelaxMyCat was a side hustle for years while he was the founder of another VC backed music discovery app that failed. 

He has experience both sides of the coin, VC backed founder and a bootstrapped founder. 

Questions and Topics covered

Can you give us a brief overview of your career journey leading up to this point?

What does it mean to be an "E-Business Specialist," and how did your experience in that role shape your entrepreneurial path?

Let's talk about venture-backed versus non-venture-backed businesses. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

When is the right time for a founder to consider pivoting a business versus closing it down entirely?

What conversations did you have with investors when you knew it was time to step away from a business as a founder?

How did you discover your niche with Roundwaves, and what aspects of that business did you find most rewarding?

Building a business on a platform like YouTube can be challenging. What were your experiences and concerns during that journey?

As a founder, what were the major value drivers of your business that you emphasized to investors?

Can you shed some light on the role of a brand ambassador and how one can secure such a position?

MusicForPets versus Roundwaves—what lessons did you carry over from one venture to the other?

Reflecting on MusicForPets, what aspects of the business do you think could have been improved?

How was the transition period for you when your company was acquired?

What advice would you give to a founder transitioning from business ownership to employment in a larger company?

Looking back at your journey, how would you describe yourself personally during each business endeavor?

Lastly, what exciting projects or ventures do you have planned for the future?

Connect with Amman

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ammanahmed/

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-13000305/la-hip-hop-producer-pet-musician-record-deal.html

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of corporate governance and advisory boards with esteemed guest Louise Broekman. Louise brings a wealth of experience and insights gained from her extensive career in board advisory roles. Here's a breakdown of the intriguing topics covered in our conversation:

Introduction to Louise Broekman's Career

• Louise provides a brief overview of her career journey, highlighting key milestones and experiences that have shaped her expertise in the field.

Understanding Board Dynamics

• We start with the basics, exploring how boards are set up and the distinct roles each member typically plays within the boardroom.

Differentiating Observer, Consultant, and Advisor Roles

• Louise clarifies the differences between observers, consultants, and advisors in the context of a board, shedding light on their respective contributions.

Enhancing Board Member Skills and Continuous Improvement

• Discussing the importance of continuous improvement, Louise shares valuable insights on how individuals can enhance their skills to become more effective board members or advisors.

Compensation for Advisory Board Members

• Louise addresses the compensation aspect, explaining how advisors typically get compensated for their time and expertise.

Positive Impact of Advisory Boards on Company Performance

• We delve into the positive changes expected in a company when an advisory board is performing optimally.

Key Distinctions between Private and Public Company Boards

• Louise outlines the key differences between serving on private boards versus public company boards, providing valuable insights into each setting.

Barriers to Joining Large Public Company Boards

• Exploring potential barriers, Louise discusses qualifications that might hinder someone from joining the board of a large public company.

Creating Diversity Within Boards

• Louise shares insights into the process of creating diversity within a board and its significance for effective decision-making.

Success Stories and Impact of Strong Advisory Boards

• Louise shares a compelling success story where the presence of a strong advisory board led to significant positive outcomes for a company.

Evolution of Advisory Boards and Future Trends

• Reflecting on the evolution of advisory boards, Louise discusses emerging trends and future projections for the role of advisory boards.

Challenges for Startups in Managing Advisory Boards

• We explore unique challenges faced by startups when establishing and managing advisory boards.

Assessing Advisory Board Effectiveness and Governance Best Practices

• Louise provides valuable advice on assessing advisory board effectiveness and optimizing board structures for governance best practices.

Practical Steps for Aspiring Board Members

• Closing on a practical note, Louise offers actionable steps for individuals aspiring to serve on a board in the future.

Learn More About Louise Broekman

 Louise Broekman | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-broekman/

https://www.advisoryboardcentre.com

My passion is mentoring CEOs and Executive Teams who want to be in control of the growth and expansion of their business. My clients develop and grow in confidence, agility, awareness, and leadership essentials. One thing is for sure, they expand their influence, communicate more effectively, cultivate strong business and personal relationships, and develop a powerful team so the company can focus on exponential growth. WHAT I CAN DO FOR YOU:

--------------------------------------------------------powerful tools, time-tested processes, and comprehensive resources, I guide my clients to a great business -- one that is achieving optimal success, as defined by them. MY APPROACH: Exponential growth is attainable. My role is to help you strip away the confusion of constantly changing economic, regulatory, personnel, supply chain, and cash flow issues that can cripple a business. I help you dive deep into the bones of the organization – the framework around which you can set the policies, procedures, systems, strategies, tactical plans, marketing initiatives, sales campaigns, hiring & firing processes, and much, much more. Just like building a house, we’ll start with laying the foundation upon which a sturdy, strong, long lasting, profitable, ethical, respected business can be built.

We talk about

The DISC personalities

When to raise capital

The power of communication and leadership in a business

Setting personal goals before business goals

AI and how it will impact business owner.

And much more

Connect with Joe

✅Email me at joe@brainsharecoach.com ✅Schedule a call https://my.timedriver.com/VNTR6

https://www.brainshare.online/pages/3-paths-page

Guests: Fouad Alnazawi and Stephanie Richards

Topic: Exploring the unique challenges and opportunities for startups in Silicon Valley and Saudi Arabia, and how collaboration between these two regions can drive innovation and growth.

Intro:

• Briefly introduce the hosts and the episode's topic.
• Highlight the expertise of the guests, Fouad Alnazawi and Stephanie Richards, in the startup ecosystems of Saudi Arabia and Silicon Valley respectively.

Career Journeys and Regional Insights:

• Invite Fouad and Stephanie to share their career paths and experiences in the startup scene.
• Discuss the distinct strengths and challenges faced by startups in Saudi Arabia compared to Silicon Valley.

Venture Capital Landscape and Investment Strategies :

• Compare the availability of venture capital and investment opportunities in both regions.
• Explore the differences in investment styles and priorities between Silicon Valley and Saudi Arabia.
• Discuss the role of angel groups and recent developments in the funding ecosystems.

Growth Trajectory and Global Collaboration:

• Analyze the typical growth trajectory of startups in Saudi Arabia and their preferred expansion strategies.
• Emphasize the importance of global collaboration and partnerships for startups in today's interconnected world.
• Discuss the potential benefits and opportunities of connecting startup ecosystems on a global scale.

International Collaboration and Initiatives:

• Highlight existing initiatives or programs in both regions that promote international collaboration among entrepreneurs and tech companies.
• Share specific examples of successful collaborations between startups from Silicon Valley and Saudi Arabia.

Regulatory Considerations and Areas of Collaboration:

• Discuss the regulatory landscape for startups in Saudi Arabia and potential challenges entrepreneurs might face.
• Identify areas where Silicon Valley and Saudi Arabia can collaborate more effectively to drive innovation and growth.

Challenges and Success Stories:

• Invite Fouad and Stephanie to share personal challenges they have encountered in their roles and how they overcame them.
• Discuss their approach to measuring the success of companies they work with.
• Share inspiring examples of successful startups that have emerged from Saudi Arabia and the problems they solve.

Connecting with the Guests and Conclusion:

• Provide information on how listeners can learn more about Fouad, Stephanie, and their work.
• Briefly summarize the key takeaways from the discussion and reiterate the importance of collaboration between startup ecosystems.

Additional Questions:

• Discuss the current emphasis on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia and its potential impact.
• Explore the role of universities and research institutions in supporting the local startup ecosystem.

Foaud Alnazawi Bio

https://www.linkedin.com/in/fouad-alnazawi-a1175712/

Foaud is the Managing Director of Lamarka Consulting Services

Lamarka is a consultancy firm that provides range of services; we have been helping visionary leaders to unleash growth and development by Crafting Winning Strategies and Implementing them.

Lamarka is a group that has 2 companies; Lamarka Consulting Services and Lamarka 700. We offer range of services for our clients to improve their businesses and take it to the next level.

Our purpose is to inspire companies and individuals to achieve their highest potential.

Our core values are:

• Elevation of Standards
• Dreams, Creativity and Innovation
• Integrity
• Encouragement of individual initiatives

Stephanie Richards https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieerichards/

Stephanie has 20 years of experience at the intersection of national economic development and innovation ecosystems. She focuses on the strategy, policy, intelligent capital and international connectivity needed to accelerate young innovation and startup environments.  With a background in economics, strategy consulting, entrepreneurship and venture capital, and following nearly a decade as a Middle East and North Africa (MENA) emerging markets and economic development specialist at Monitor Group (subsequently Monitor Deloitte), Stephanie founded her own firm in 2013. She advises and partners with mission-aligned venture capital funds, ecosystem builders, academic institutions and government entities to ensure that pioneering IP, innovation and technologies find a path to international markets and global impact. Stephanie has a particular passion for mentoring researcher-entrepreneurs, building innovator-founder communities, and supporting innovation commercialization and ecosystemic transitions from shallower tech to deeper tech. She serves as an advisory board member, mentor and investor for numerous startups and early-stage companies, and is a business supervisor, guest speaker and regular mentor for entrepreneurial talent at the University of Cambridge Judge Business School. Having been based in MENA since 2005, Stephanie now divides her time between the GCC, the UK (London and Cambridge) and North America (primarily Silicon Valley), actively working to improve collaboration between the diverse set of innovation communities on all three continents.

Intro:

• Introduce Michael and his background in startups, investment, and community building.
• Highlight his book, "Form Your Pack," as a guide for entrepreneurs to create and empower their own support networks.

Building Your Wolfpack:

• Discuss the core concept of the "Wolfpack" and why it's crucial for entrepreneurial success.
• Explore the book's goal of equipping listeners with tools and strategies to build their own powerful communities.

Cracking the Success Formula:

• Ask Michael to share his personal insights on the elusive formula for success in the business world.
• Delve into his unique perspective that goes beyond traditional "hustle" or "innovation."

Understanding Keiretsu:

• Briefly explain the history and unique structure of Keiretsu, a venture capital firm focused on community-driven decision-making.
• Analyze the pros and cons of this model for both entrepreneurs and investors.

YC Meets Wu-Tang Clan:

• Explore the surprising connection Michael draws between Y Combinator, the prestigious startup accelerator, and the legendary hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan.
• Discuss the common threads of building strong communities and driving impact through collaboration.

Power of Public Building:

• Unpack the potential benefits and challenges of building your company "in public," as Michael advocates.
• Explore effective strategies for engaging communities and leveraging transparency for growth.

Behind the Board Ape Club:

• Share Michael's perspective on the phenomenal success of the Bored Ape Yacht Club, a community-driven NFT project.
• Analyze the key factors that contributed to its rise and the valuable lessons for other entrepreneurs.

Optimizing Your Wolfpack:

• Discuss ideal pack size and strategies for ensuring everyone contributes meaningfully.
• delve into the process of establishing a shared agenda and aligning individual goals with the pack's mission.

Beware the Dark Triad:

• Explain the concept of the "three dark triad" personalities (narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy) and their potential to harm a pack's dynamics.
• Offer tips for identifying and mitigating the negative impact of these individuals.

Embracing Wrong Decisions:

• Dive deeper into Michael's powerful quote about accepting the risk of making wrong decisions.
• Discuss the importance of failing forward and learning from mistakes in the entrepreneurial journey.

Connect with Michael:

(9) Michael Devellano | LinkedIn

Bio:

CEO, Board Member, Best-Selling Author, and Acclaimed International Speaker, Adam Coffey is a visionary leader who drives transformative growth and fosters high-performance cultures. With 21+ years of experience as CEO, Adam led three national private equity-backed service companies for 9 private equity sponsors. During this time period he completed 58 acquisitions, his track record includes notable outcomes measured in the billions, averaging 5x MOIC at exit. Adam is a respected mentor to MBA candidates and a sought-after speaker at UCLA. He brings diverse expertise from commercial and industrial service businesses, alongside being a licensed general contractor, pilot, former GE executive, and US Army veteran. As an author, Adam's books "The Private Equity Playbook" (2019), "The Exit Strategy Playbook" (2021) and Empire Builder (2023) all became #1 Amazon Best Sellers. Recognized as one of the "Most Influential Leaders" by the Orange County Business Journal, he founded the CEO Advisory Guru in 2021, providing consulting services to private equity firms, their portfolio companies and to founders. Adam's impactful seminars have generated millions in revenue, solidifying his position as one of the world's top speakers. He resides in Westlake, TX, with his family.

Outline of episode

Intro :

• Briefly introduce Adam and his expertise in private equity and business growth.
• Mention his bestselling books, "The Private Equity Playbook", "The Exit Strategy Playbook", and "Empire Builder".

Understanding Private Equity:

• Refresh listeners' memory:Briefly explain the role of private equity in business growth and its different types (venture capital, buyout funds, etc.).
• Leveraging PE:Discuss how companies can use PE for funding, acquisitions, and operational expertise.

The Private Equity Pyramid:

• Explain Adam's concept of the private equity pyramid and its stages based on revenue (ideally, include illustrative graphics).
• Discuss how entrepreneurs can apply this framework to their own growth strategy.

Growth Stages and Revenue Milestones:

• Compare traditional Silicon Valley funding stages (pre-seed, seed, etc.) with Adam's revenue-based stages.
• Provide practical insights for entrepreneurs on identifying their current stage and key milestones for growth.

Building a Great Culture:

• Debunk myths about company culture (beer on tap, ping pong tables) and emphasize Adam's core principles for building a high-performance culture.
• Discuss factors like leadership, communication, and employee engagement.

Unit Economics and Financial Fundamentals:

• Explain the importance of calculating unit economics (cost to acquire/retain a customer, lifetime value, etc.).
• Discuss when companies should start tracking these metrics and how they can be used for informed decision-making.

Product-Based Business Essentials:

• Share Adam's insights on what makes a good product-based business. (e.g., product-market fit, customer focus, continuous iteration).
• Provide actionable tips for entrepreneurs to improve their product strategy.

Transparency and Communication:

• Discuss the importance of transparency and open communication within a company, especially during different growth stages.
• Offer guidance on balancing transparency with maintaining strategic confidentiality.

Culture and Revenue: The Intertwined Path:

• Explore the relationship between company culture and revenue growth.
• Explain how a positive culture can drive employee engagement, productivity, and ultimately, financial success.

Pricing Power and Growth Levers:

• Discuss who "owns the price" in a company and how to establish strong pricing power.
• Share key growth levers entrepreneurs can pull to increase revenue and market share.

The Power of Rolling Over Equity:

• Explain the concept of rolling over equity during a company exit and its potential benefits for founders.
• Provide guidance for entrepreneurs on negotiating favorable terms for their equity stake.

Connect with Adam

https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamecoffey/

https://adamecoffey.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Builder-Billion-Adam-Coffey/dp/B0CJT8KMT6/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1696460248&sr=1-2

Career Journey:

• A brief overview of Paul's career, from his roles in multiple NFL and NBA teams to his current mission with Purpose Labs.
• The life-changing transformation at the San Francisco 49ers that led Paul to discover his 'Why' and inspire purpose in others.

Navigating Corporate Challenges:

• Selling for a "losing" team and playing "offense" in a "defense" environment.
• Insights into a competitive corporate environment and rising up in a challenging workplace.

Engaging with Professional Athletes:

• Strategies for founders to capture the attention of professional athletes or teams.
• Best practices for founders partnering with celebrities for endorsements.

Transition from Sports to Purpose Labs:

• Reasons behind Paul's transition from the world of sports to founding Purpose Labs.
• Insights and lessons for entrepreneurs and business owners.

Exploring the Book "Playing Offense":

• Understanding "Most Valuable Decision" (MVD) and its significance.
• Green-light life vs. red-light life, the "Head + Heart = Hands" equation, and the challenge of a "yellow light" situation.

Decision-Making and Confidence Building:

• The 4 Cs for making better decisions faster.
• Building unshakable confidence and the role of a growth mindset.

CEO Traits and Future Goals:

• Traits observed in the best CEOs.
• Paul's goals for the scalability of impact in the coming years.

Connecting with Paul:

• How to learn more about Paul, Purpose Labs, and his impactful work.

Additional Insights (if time permits):

• Faking it until you make it vs. real authenticity.
• Understanding "breaking the needle."
• Being at peak performance in business when needed.
• Discoveries from Paul's podcast interviews with exceptional individuals.

Tune in to gain valuable insights on leadership, decision-making, and building unshakable confidence with Paul Epstein.

Connect with Paul:

• LinkedIn

The Search Fund Model with Jon Smith

Introduction and Career Background

Jon shares insights into his career journey leading up to his current role.

Understanding Search Funds

Definition and historical context of search funds in the business landscape.

Risks and Challenges

A discussion on potential risks and challenges associated with the search fund model.

Evolution of Search Funds

Insight into how search funds are evolving and what excites Jon about their future.

Track Record Overview

An overview of the track record and success stories associated with search funds.

Participants in the Search Fund Model

Exploring who typically opts for the search fund route, including the backgrounds of investors and operators.

Identification and Evaluation

The process of identifying and evaluating potential target companies for acquisition.

Exit Strategies and Timelines

Addressing whether search funds have specific exit timelines and the parameters involved.

Due Diligence

Insights into how search funds approach due diligence and factors considered in the evaluation of potential acquisitions.

Access to Deals

How search fund operators gain access to premium deals and compete with larger institutions.

Why Choose a Search Fund as a Buyer?

Common reasons why sellers may opt for a search fund as the buyer for their company.

Seller Due Diligence

The due diligence process sellers typically undertake when considering a search fund acquisition.

Value Creation and Growth Plans

Strategies employed by search funds to create value and drive growth in acquired businesses.

Investor Involvement Post-Acquisition

The level of investor involvement and oversight in the operations of the acquired company.

Management Fee Structure and Incentives

Explaining the fund's management fee structure and performance incentives for the search fund team.

Investor Communications

How communication is managed with investors and the frequency of updates on the search fund's progress.

Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Jon invites listeners to connect and learn more about him and his work.

To learn more about Jon and his insights,

Connec with Jon

https://www.agatehound.fund/

https://twitter.com/AgateHoundFund

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonstaenberg/

jon@staenberg.com

Jon’s bio

Founder / Managing Partner

Jon Staenberg

Jon Staenberg has been an active venture capitalist for over 30 years, serving as a General Partner in three Funds managing over $250 million. He is also a venture partner in three Venture Funds. As an angel investor, Jon has made over 250 investments.

Currently, he is focused on building Agate Hound Fund, a fund for Search Funds. This asset class is relatively unknown but has shown exceptional performance over the past 40 years. Additionally, he spends his spare time working on his vineyard in Argentina, www.handofgodwines.com.

In these intriguing times, Jon has a captivating story to share about what lies ahead and why search funds are the new venture capital.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Emily Ward, Founder and CEO of AlcaCruz, as we explore her remarkable journey from VP and Chief Technology Counsel at eBay to the helm of her own tech startup.

Key Questions and Topics:

Career Overview:

Emily shares a summary of her distinguished career leading up to her current role.

Global Market Expansion:

Lessons learned from eBay's expansion into China and global markets.

Strategies for fast-growing startups planning to enter new markets.

Intellectual Property for Startups:

The importance of intellectual property for startups.

Insights on filing patents from a legal and technology perspective.

Mergers and Acquisitions:

Emily's experiences on eBay's M&A teams and the importance of a strong legal team.

Stories and lessons from assessing and acquiring companies like GSI, Bill Me Later, and Braintree.

Diversity on Boards:

Emily's thoughts on diversity on company boards.

Considerations for founders when creating a board.

Leadership Wisdom:

Wisdom on leadership from Emily's extensive speaking engagements in the tech community.

Transition to Tech Entrepreneurship:

Emily's decision to start a tech company instead of a law practice.

Insights on women CEOs in the tech startup space.

AlcaCruz Overview:

Emily provides an overview of AlcaCruz and the problems it aims to solve.

Tech Readiness for Problem Solving:

The intersection of technology and problem-solving for AlcaCruz's mission.

Career Transition Advice:

How Emily's corporate experience prepared her for entrepreneurship.

Advice for individuals transitioning from well-funded companies to starting their own ventures.

Resources for Women Founders:

Insights into resources available for women founders.

Personal experiences regarding advantages and disadvantages in Emily's career.

Connect with Emily:

Learn more about AlcaCruz and connect with Emily.

Closing:

Don't miss this enriching conversation with Emily Ward, where we delve into the nuances of tech leadership, entrepreneurship, and the journey from corporate giants to startup dreams.

Stay tuned for more insights and inspiration!

Connect with Emily

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilysward/

• com (Company)
• com (Company)

emilyward@gmail.com

Full Bio:

CompetesTV uses our award winning MultiView tech for video competitions. Creators use their videos to showcase their talents and share contests to grow viewership and revenue streams. www.competes.tv. Launching soon!  AlcaCruz created MultiView video streaming technology that live streams multiple camera views or multiple games (sports, esports, concerts, channel programming, etc.) into one interactive screen. Available in IOS & Android as CruzTV. Emily is CEO of CompetesTV & AlcaCruz. Previously, Emily was Vice President & Worldwide Chief Technology Counsel at PayPal and eBay for many years. Legal tech leader for PayPal’s and eBay’s technologies, products and companies. Legal tech lead on eBay’s M&A teams that assessed and bought GSI ($2.4B), Bill Me Later ($1.2B), Braintree ($800M), and many other companies, as well as divested Skype. Split the IP portfolios for eBay and PayPal during PayPal’s spin-off from eBay. Testified on patent reform before Congressional committee. Successfully resolved bet-the-company lawsuits, including Merc Exchange v. eBay (previous unanimous US Supreme Court decision for eBay). She has won numerous awards, including being recognized as one of the Most Influential Women in Silicon Valley (SV Business Journal), one of the Top Women Leaders in Technology Law, one of the World’s Leading IP Strategists, Legal Impact Winner, Multicultural Leadership Award, Legal Momentum Women of Achievement honoree and the Direct Women Board Institute program. She enjoys spending time with family, friends and church, and she and her family are avid dog lovers and currently have 4 rescue dogs at home. They also support the Hope Technology School (a full inclusion school for special needs children).

Founder & CEO at Enable, creating the Rebate Management software category. Used by manufacturers, distributors and retailers globally to increase earnings. Since 2020 we've grown 15X and raised $275m from top tier investors.  My mission is to enable trusted trading relationships that serve customers better together. My vision is to empower thriving partner ecosystems of manufacturers, distributors and retailers where people can find the best products, services and value. Enable is a B2B SaaS platform for companies across 50+ sectors to analyze, negotiate and execute complex trading agreements to drive profitable growth. Served on the Board of Directors of several other companies and not-for-profits. I have started and grown multiple businesses into profit and positive cash flow, including exit to PE. * Founded 4 businesses, and demonstrated traction and growth in every case * Grown revenues every quarter without exception - now a permanent team of 500 * Served on main board of directors for 3 years for Helicopter Club of Great Britain * Served on main board of directors for 3 years for a $300m business * Co-founded and sold business to private equity

Episode Highlights:

Introduction to Andrew's Career:

Andrew provides an overview of his career journey, highlighting key milestones and experiences that shaped his entrepreneurial path.

Startup Ecosystem: UK vs. Silicon Valley:

Andrew shares insights into the similarities and differences between the startup ecosystems in the UK and Silicon Valley since he now resides in San Francisco.

Expansion Routes and Advice for Silicon Valley Companies:

Discussing Andrew's experience with expanding companies from the UK to Europe or the US, and valuable advice for Silicon Valley companies eyeing entry into the European market.

Evaluating Ideas for Building a Company:

Andrew delves into his approach to evaluating ideas for building a company, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Evolution of SaaS Over Time:

Reflecting on the evolution of SaaS since Andrew's first venture in 2004, exploring the changes and challenges faced by founders in the SaaS space.

Raising Capital and Working with Top Tier VCs:

Andrew shares his experiences with fundraising, from the early struggles to landing a significant investment, and discusses what it's like to collaborate with top-tier venture capitalists.

Key Metrics for Company Tracking:

Exploring the metrics Andrew tracks for his company, revealing how he identified and prioritized these metrics for success.

Rebate Management Software:

Andrew provides insights into rebate management software, shedding light on its significance in the business landscape.

Organic Growth vs. Acquisition:

Discussing the decision-making process behind growing a company organically versus through acquisitions, with a focus on the acquisition of Profectus Group’s RDM Platform.

Managing Culture Integration Post-Acquisition:

Andrew shares tips on managing the integration of different company cultures after an acquisition, drawing from his experiences.

Employee Liquidity and Staying Private Longer:

Addressing the trend of companies staying private longer and conversations around employee liquidity, providing perspectives on these industry shifts.

Continuous Learning and Board Membership:

Andrew discusses his commitment to continuous learning, serving on boards, and the best practices for being an effective board member.

Entrepreneurial Journey and Valuable Lessons:

Andrew reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, sharing the most valuable business lesson he has learned over the years.

Looking Ahead and Final Thoughts:

Andrew discusses topics not covered in the episode, his future plans, and invites listeners to connect for more insights.

Connect with Andrew

https://www.linkedin.com/in/awbutt/

- Adam and the Daffy team are offering all our listeners a free $25 to give to the charity of their choice when they get started with Daffy. Simply use this sign-up link to get started. 

Adam is a proven advocate for development of products that go beyond utility to delight customers. At Dropbox, he led the teams responsible for growth, product strategy, product management & product analytics for a platform with over 600 million registered users with responsibility for all of Dropbox self-service revenue (~90% of all company revenue in 2019). Before Dropbox, Adam served as the President & CEO of Wealthfront, where for four years he championed the creation of a new category of automated investment services. While Adam was at Wealthfront, the company grew its client base by over 60x, and grew assets under management 45x from less than $100m to over $4 billion. During his tenure, Wealthfront delivered industry-leading innovations including Direct Indexing, the Single-Stock Diversification Service, and the first automated 529 College Savings Plan. Prior to joining Wealthfront, Adam was Vice President of Product Management at LinkedIn. Adam led LinkedIn’s Platform & Mobile products, including the launch of LinkedIn’s open developer platform and their highly successful native applications and mobile web experiences. Adam was the founder and architect of LinkedIn Hackdays, a seminal program for driving the innovation culture at the company. He also was responsible for leading LinkedIn’s search & cloud efforts, as well as forming and leading their user experience & design team. Prior to joining LinkedIn, Adam held a number of leadership roles at eBay, including Director of eBay Express, an innovative new site focused on new, fixed-price products. Previously, Adam also held strategic and technical roles at Atlas Venture, Preview Systems and Apple. Adam holds an MBA from Harvard Business School as well as BS and MS degrees in Computer Science with a focus on Human Computer Interaction from Stanford University. Adam was born and raised in Silicon Valley where he lives with his wife, four children and a golden retriever.

We talk about

What is exciting between the intersection of finance and technology?

What is some due diligence one should do on a company before investing?

Knowledge, experiences or a network…what is the most important when building a company?

What are common behavioral biases or tendencies that individuals exhibit when making financial decisions?

Co-Founder & Managing Partner at 3SPOKE

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-leisegang-3spoke/

3SPOKE provides balanced liquidity solutions for the stakeholders of leading growth stage private technology companies. Utilizing an innovative financing structure combining attractive features of debt and equity, we offer individual shareholders and their companies a highly favorable form of capital. Utilized as an alternative to a secondary market sale or to provide for the capital necessary for employees to exercise their stock options and purchase their shares, 3SPOKE’s solutions are designed to maximize value and minimize risk and disruption.

We talk about:

What should people know about Secondary’s and the private markets?

How do investors do their due diligence on these private companies?

What is the concept of balanced liquidity solutions for stakeholders of private technology companies?

In the past, what have GP’s, LP’s, done for liquidity?

We are a global team who shares a vision for a world where thought leadership and innovation can change more lives in less time.

Why now?  Because more innovations will be created in more countries and industries over the next decade than in the previous 50 years.  Many that offer the potential to solve pressing global issues will fail to reach the markets that need them the most.

Reaction was founded by a diverse team of global leaders who united to solve this problem.  

Dan Matthies

Dan is a proven builder and operator of global businesses, a Stanford Changemaker, awarded innovator, and Top 100 Entrepreneur.   He has been leading Reaction since its inception.

Prior to Reaction, for 15 years Dan built and operated global tech businesses, including an awarded investment platform used by leading institutions to manage trillions of assets.  As a corporate entrepreneur, he was responsible for all aspects of strategy, product, growth and P&L, creating over $3 Billion in enterprise value.

Dan is an alum of Stanford University (Stanford Executive Program and The Corporate Entrepreneur),  The Wharton School of Business (MBA), and The College of New Jersey (Finance and International Business).

Dan has also completed his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designations.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/danmatthies/

Michael Dorsey

I have a successful 20-year record in Impact Investing, having co-founded and managed the innovative Bay Area Equity Fund (now DBL Investors), which achieved a 24% IRR, 4x cash-on-cash return, and created more than 15,000 jobs. My current fund, the Bay Area Growth Fund, seeks to repeat this success. I also managed two funds for the Westly Group, focused primarily on clean tech.  Prior to my venture capital career, I spent 20 years in investment banking, primarily focused on technology and other emerging growth companies. I served as Head of Technology Company investment banking at Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette and Cowen & Co. I am committed to improving the world through for-profit investing. In addition to investing, I am also committed to supporting the companies and entrepreneurs we invest in.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-dorsey-372a6710/

Julieta Romero

Julieta has broad experience across venture capital, FoodTech, government and banking.

She began her career at JP Morgan where she led a team of analysts performing macroeconomic and industry research on opportunities in Power and Utilities, Oil and Gas, Retail and Hospitality.  

She then went on to advise the Secretary of Financial Services and the Commissioner in the Argentinean Government Executive Branch on public policy initiatives across the mortgage, insurance and capital markets.

Most recently, she invested in climate and social solutions at an impact investment fund based in Mexico, and worked on strategy and partnerships for one of the largest alternative meat companies.   

Julieta is an alum of Stanford University (MBA) and Universidad de 'San Andrés' (Masters in Finance, Corporate Finance and Bachelors in International Relations).

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julietaromero/

We talk about

Lessons learned while working 20 plus years at Bloomberg.

The origin story of Reaction?

Stories of being an Investment Banker through the history of Silicon Valley.

Investing in the double bottom line.

The value of a global network

And more

Website

https://www.reaction.global/

The former CEO of the Association for Corporate Growth, Silicon Valley (ACGSV) and a 30-year semiconductor veteran, Drue advises and consults for early-stage startups, multi-billion dollar corporations, and for financial institutions studying the implications of technological disruptions on the automotive industry. Drue is on the Advisory Boards of several public and private companies as well as Silicon Catalyst. His Venture Capital and Angel Investments focus primarily on the automotive sector.

Previously, Drue served as Sr Vice President Global Automotive Sales & Marketing at NXP (2009 - 2015), gaining significant automotive semiconductor TAM share. In his career with NXP (formerly Philips Semiconductors), Drue spent 3 years in Shanghai establishing a #1 position in the China automotive market while launching and serving as Board Member for the first Chinese automotive semiconductor company, Datang-NXP Semiconductors. Prior to China, he worked 7 years at NXP’s Automotive HQ in Germany, including 4 years as VP of Automotive Quality. He has also been based in Tokyo, with Philips and VLSI Technology and held positions in key account management, applications engineering, and development engineering for various companies in California.

We talk about

Who are the most active angel groups in Silicon Valley?

What types of due diligence does one do on a company before investing?

What role do syndicate members play after making an investment?

What are the negatives or benefits of investing as an individual or a syndicate?

How does one find boards to be on?

What technologies do you see really helping in West Africa?

And much more

Connect with Drue

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drue-freeman-b67a12/

drue@betterbigpicture.com

Over 20 years of entrepreneurial, managerial, and product/UX design experience. Founded 3 companies, built and led teams of over 100 engineers and designers, and shipped over 20 products from mobile phones to cloud services to AI computer vision systems.

What are the key benefits and advantages that augmented reality can offer an individual or an organization?

How does augmented reality align with an overall digital transformation or innovation strategy of companies?

Are there any specific regulatory or privacy considerations that need to be addressed when implementing augmented reality solutions?

How do you incorporate user feedback and insights into the iterative development of AI-driven spatial reality experiences?

Where are the opportunities for entrepreneurs right now in this space?

Connect with Jon

linkedin.com/in/jonli001

• Twitter jonli01

Bio:

I have over 20 very successful and rewarding years leading start-up and growth-stage companies in digital and tech industries. My experience spans sales, marketing, human resources, operations, and all aspects of the customer journey. Holding roles ranging from VP GM to VP of Operations to CEO, I have driven the integration and stabilization of organizations experiencing mergers & acquisitions, hyper-growth, or other disruptive processes. I have successfully helped companies ranging in size from start-up to >$100 million as well as those looking to monetize assets such as TMP/Monster.com, Ticketmaster, and Revolution Health Group. CHALLENGE Companies often struggle to connect the dots between corporate mission, sales, product delivery, and customers' goals. Mergers & acquisitions, rapid growth, or other disruptive processes typically amplify misalignment. When not addressed, this leads to missed opportunities for revenue growth, employee engagement, and customer satisfaction. Organizations tout a customer-focused approach in the hopes that this rallying cry will create alignment of people, product, and process. It doesn’t, and therefore, Brand equity suffers, engagement declines, and customers look elsewhere. REPUTATION I am known for getting things done with high proficiency and integrity, as a cross-functional leader, collaborator, and strategic thinker. I have earned the reputation of a business integrator with expertise in customer growth, operational execution, and broad-based business management. I connect the company and the client through brand clarity, effective solutions delivery, and highly engaged teams. STYLE I bring a goal-driven and collaborative style to business operations and executive leadership. I am passionate about using honesty, kindness & respect in the treatment of all people while discovering innovative ways to approach business challenges and new markets. Leveraging empathy, business acumen, and consultative approaches I drive effective operations, sales and customer growth. I am comfortable addressing complex problems and often difficult situations, handling them with ease and candor ensuring actionable goals & objectives drive success. Key Skills: Start-up * Sales and Service Delivery * People Leadership * Business Development * Customer Success Driver * Decisive and Focused Executive * Integration Before, During and After M&A * Team Builder * Product Development * Profitable Business Manager * Change Management

We talk about

When starting to work with a company, where are there usually skeletons?

What is life after being a CEO like?

Mergers & Acquisitions… pre and post closing. What are some integration best practices?

Is there a disconnect between the Silicon Valley “elite” and the rest of Silicon Valley… and the rest of the world?

Connect with Karen

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/karentraversikovaleski/

Email karen.traversi.kovaleski@gmail.com

Ron Gutman is an inventor, an investor, a serial technology and healthcare entrepreneur and a Stanford University adjunct Professor.

Ron has built and invested in technology and healthcare companies that have served hundreds of millions of people and saved tens of thousands of lives worldwide. He's an inventor holding a series of patents in healthcare technology and Artificial Intelligence and won the World Economic Forum Technology Pioneer award.

Ron's articles have been published in respected media such as The Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Fortune Magazine, CNN, and TechCrunch. He also wrote a best-selling TED Book SMILE: The Astonishing Power of a Simple Act, and gave a popular TED talk about smiling that was translated to 51 languages and viewed by millions everywhere. Ron has also presented in leading technology and healthcare conferences, including The World Economic Forum, TED, and Fortune Brainstorm Tech.

Ron's mission is to help everyone live happier, healthier, longer lives.

We talk about:

How did you come up with the topic for your ted talk “The Hidden Power of Smiling?” Do you live by the motto of “Smiling” today?

What factors do you consider when determining the structure and design of a supply chain?

How is it different scaling-up a company that has a massive funding event verse growing a company without any-external funding?

What is the antidote to Blitzscaling? In the current environment, does Blitzcaling make sense?

What are the best ways that entrepreneurs and start-ups can achieve hyper-growth today without making huge structural, financial, and in some cases, ethical mistakes in the process?

And much more….

Connect with Ron

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/rongutman/

Twitter @ronsmilegutman

Email RonSmileGutman@gmail.com

Gunja Gargeshwari works as a Chief Revenue Officer at Bright Data, which is a Data Collection & Internet Portals company with an estimated 450 employees; and founded in 2014. They are part of the Sales Executive team within the C-Suite Department and their management level is C-Level. Gunja graduated from Wayne State University in 1996 and is currently based in United States. They used to work at Amazon.com and Théâtre de Paris a

Previous Work Experience

Gunja Gargeshwari's career began 27 years ago. Prior to joining Bright Data, Gunja worked at 4 companies.

2018 - 2022Zendesk

Platform, Zd Sunshine Conversations & Zd Sell Vice President, Worldwide Sales

2015 - 2018Amazon.com

Isv Accounts Sales Leader

2015 - 2018Théâtre de Paris

Mid Market Isv Accounts Sales Leader

1996 - 2015Oracle

Senior Director, Oracle Consulting Sales, Retail & Financial Services

We talk about

How is Artificial Intelligence impacting data?

Are companies really utilizing internal data?

What are some good causes for use of public data?

What does a Chief Revenue Officer, CRO do?

The story of the first 1 billion dollar deal for Amazon?

And more

Connect with Gunja  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gunja-gargeshwari-5bb37/

We talk about

How does the selection process change depending on the stage of the company?

What are some of the metrics a company should know at the seed stage of its life cycle?

What takes place during Financial due diligence?

What happens in an Investment Committee meeting?

Connect with Zamir

1. VC and Podari.life charity program - https://www.podari.life/vibranium
2. VC Softlanding Program - https://vibranium.vc/softlanding
3. VC website - https://vibranium.vc/
4. LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/vibraniumvc
5. Twitter - https://twitter.com/Vibranium_VC

Drew Sechrist the Co-Founder and CEO, of Connect The Dots. Drew was part of the team that grew Salesforce from $0 to over $1B in revenue. During that time, he was both the #1 sales manager (globally), and the #1 account executive (globally).

‍

He helped define best practices for both high volume sales and large enterprise transactions. A huge part of Drew’s success was leveraging the relationships in his network and mastering the art of the warm introduction.

We talk about

What was the ride like being at Salesforce from $0 to over $1billion in revenue?

Where do most startups mess up with sales training?

How should a startup think about their sales processes?

How should young companies think about their sales compensation packages?

How important is timing, how important is luck when building a company?

Connect with Drew

drew.sechrist@gmail.com

https://twitter.com/drewsechrist

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewsechrist/

Website https://www.ctd.ai/

Errors made in buying a business can be very costly. My clients avoid these mistakes.

We provide a better Quality of Earnings for #SMB, #SelfFundedSearcher & #ETA buyers which includes help with tough negotiations during their deal alongside pieces of commercial and operational diligence.

How are we different & better?:

Alongside each Quality of Earnings, we advise our clients on how to execute better deals leveraging our 20+ years acquiring small and medium sized businesses. We are deal guys who manage accountants who help entrepreneurs buy better businesses.

Want to know if a CPA firm or a full-service diligence firm like Guardian is the right choice for you? Take our 5 question assessment here: guardianduediligence(dot)com/assessment

Call or email me at (404) 441-2637 or eholland@guardianduediligence.com.

We talk about

What is the difference between a “Quality of Earnings” and a “Quality of Earnings lite”?

What are some key factors that can impact the quality of earnings?

What is the relationship between earnings quality and a company's valuation?

How do one-time events or special circumstances impact the quality of earnings?

How does the quality of earnings differ for private versus public companies?

Connect with Elliot

 https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliottholland/

elliott.e.holland@gmail.com

Guardianduediligence.com/services

(8) King of QoE (@ElliottEHolland) / Twitter

Jay Chaudhry

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaychaudhry/

Seasoned and successful entrepreneur and CEO. Looking for ambitious, driven professionals to join the Zscaler family.

Jay Chaudhry is an accomplished entrepreneur, having founded a series of successful companies, including AirDefense, CipherTrust, CoreHarbor, Secure IT and Zscaler. Chaudhry has a history of introducing visionary innovations that address the demand for securely enabling emerging technologies, such as the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange for distributed and highly mobile enterprises. His work in the IT security sector has made him a trusted advisor for many enter

Ashley Tarver

Data & AI Cloud EvangelistData & AI Cloud Evangelist

Microsoft

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-bigdata/

Responsible for driving better insights from data, cloud, machine learning and AI. I am the strategic advisor to business, community and government leaders in all areas involving joint solution vision, strategy and success metrics of their data. I provide guidance to corporate and regional leaders involving product development, sales revenue targets, pipeline growth, and market share capture. I evangelize joint value propositions and solutions through an ecosystem interlock with partner executives, regional partners, marketing, field sales and customers.

Philippe Bousissou PH.D

https://www.linkedin.com/in/phbouissou/

TEDx speaker, best-selling book author, growth expert, entrepreneur, CEO, venture capitalist, board member. Three decades in Silicon Valley growing and running businesses. Managing Partner at Blue Dots Partners LLC, a management consulting firm focused on top-line revenue acceleration for companies or business units with at least $10 million in sales.

Guy Kawasaki

https://www.linkedin.com/in/guykawasaki/

Guy is on a mission to make people remarkable. He is the host of the Remarkable People podcast featuring people such as Jane Goodall, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Marc Benioff, Angela Duckworth, Bob Cialdini, Arianna Huffington, and Kristi Yamaguchi. He possesses extensive knowledge of innovation, entrepreneurship, social media, podcasting, and marketing. Plus, he is a mediocre surfer.

Chris Gentle

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cgentle/

I help boards and senior executives generate enhanced top-line growth so as to help map the path to a successful future for their organisation. By defining and identifying the most important insights, I work with decision makers to put this into practice. I also help organisations build the reputation and influence required to ensure they achieve their strategic goal.  My contributions can be captured under three headings: Board Level Professional: I have international experience in 25 countries working with the leaders at the very highest levels including Big Four executive leadership at Deloitte and KPMG, businesses across EMEA region and in government with the UK Prime Minister and President of EU to fashion strategies which engage stakeholders and drive lasting change….

Velchamy Sankarlingam

https://www.linkedin.com/in/velchamy/

Experienced in hardware, software and service industries on engineering and management areas. Advanced degrees in Engineering and Management. Excellent track record on delivering products. Specialties: Strong technical and management skills.

and more

Co-Founder and CEO of lemlist.

On a mission to help 1,000,000 entrepreneurs to build profitable businesses by 2025.

In 3.5 years, we went from $0 to $10 million in ARR at lemlist, 20k+ customers worldwide, without any funding.

Guilliame loves SaaS businesses, B2B growth strategies and cool people

We talk about

When selling a business how long does it take and what are possible surprises along the process?

How should a founder go about building a personal brand?

What are the five stages of a business?

What are 4 things to avoid at all cost?

How should a founder go about negotiating a term sheet?

Connect with Guillaume

https://www.guillaumemoubeche.com/

https://twitter.com/GuillaumeMbh

I am a four time author, three time founder, a keynote speaker and internationally recognized expert in Agile Software Development. Coming from Silicon Valley, I know how often founders focus on building companies to flip. My passion is building companies that make the world better.

At FirstRoot, Inc. our mission is to create the next generation of impact investors. We want to get $1K into 1M schools globally and watch what happens when youth control $1B in capital.

The Every Voice Engaged Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit that helps citizens, governments and nonprofit organizations collaboratively solve problems that are unsolvable without civic engagement. EVEF has been a leader in the Participatory Budgeting movement, helping citizens prioritize hundreds of millions of dollars through Budget Games.

Conteneo, Inc. was acquired by Scaled Agile, Inc. With our extraordinary development team, we created the Weave, Strategy Engine and Knowsy® decision agility platforms. In partnership with The Kettering Foundation (www.kettering.org), Conteneo created Common Ground for Action, the first scalable platform for deliberative decision-making.

At Applied Frameworks, we make the world better by helping our customers create sustainably profitable businesses. My most recent book, Software Profit Solutions, is co-authored with Jason Tanner and shares key insights from our experience to help transform businesses through profitable, sustainable software solutions.

Join our newsletter linked in my profile above for periodic Profit Streams updates and to be notified when the book is available! https://profit-streams.com/book

We talk about:

What is system thinking and how is it used?

What are some of the tools one would use to navigate the “Fog of uncertainty”?

When should one think about raising prices?

When does software eat Hardware?

What is Solution Life-cycle management?

Connect with Luke

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukehohmann/

Website https://appliedframeworks.com/

TEDx speaker, best-selling book author, growth expert, entrepreneur, CEO, venture capitalist, board member. Three decades in Silicon Valley growing and running businesses. Managing Partner at Blue Dots Partners LLC, a management consulting firm focused on top-line revenue acceleration for companies or business units with at least $10 million in sales.

Specialties: ▷ Top-line revenue growth, business development, and business acceleration ▷ Management consulting ▷ Operations and execution ▷ Entrepreneurship and new venture creation ▷ Venture capital

What are the 5 stages of growth throughout a businesses life-cycle?

How do growth expectations change with the macroeconomic developments?

What is the sinking tower analysis?

What is the A4 precision alignment paradigm?

How do companies lose alignment and how can they get it back?

And much more

Connect with Philippr

https://www.linkedin.com/in/phbouissou/

BlueDotsPartners.com 

PhilippeBouissou.com (

I specialize in helping my fellow founders create the exits they deserve. My team and I at Exitwise.com help each business owner hire and manage the best team of M&A experts from our global network of industry specialized, investment bankers, M&A attorneys and tax accountants, to minimize the risk of a failed engagement and to maximize the outcome for every client.

We serve our fellow founders and business owners in more than 200 middle and lower middle market industries including aerospace and defense, specialty manufacturing, business services, tech enabled services, FinTech, EdTech, HCM, Gaming, SaaS, Marketplaces, eCommerce, IoT, HealthTech, Ad/MarTech, Med Device, SportsTech, CloudTech and many more industries.

I have been fortunate enough to have thoroughly enjoyed my entrepreneurial journey over last 20 years building and selling four businesses. I have learned how to launch, fund, grow and sell software and manufacturing businesses. Now I am eager to share my insights and experience with my fellow founders to ensure that each of you can create the exits you, your families and your employees deserve.

As an entrepreneur, my ventures have been funded by Accel Partners, Lightbank, Great Oaks Ventures, New Enterprise Ventures, CSA Partners, Detroit Venture Partners and various angel groups.

As a private investor and venture partner, I have been honored to invest in entrepreneurs who are developing solutions to improve how businesses and individuals work, connect, transact and perform.

Awards:

"Top 20 Entrepreneur" - Zell-Lurie Institute @ UofM

"Top Wireless Startup" - CTIA

"Top 50 Award" - TechCrunch50

"Entrepreneur of the Year"​ - Ross School of Business

We talk about:

When there is a timeline with a goal to get acquired, how does that impact the operations of a company?

What is the best way for a founder to mentally prepare for an exit?

How does the sale complexity  change with the dollar amount involved in the transaction?

What areas do sellers seem to have the most confusion over in the sales process?

And much more

Connect with Todd

https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddfsullivan/

todd@exitwise.com

 We talk about:

What should founders think when they are facing a possible down-round?

How important is being seen as a thought leader in the world of VC?

Why should founders not rely on investors for a bridge round? 

How does a VC attract the best investments?

What happens to a fund when they start to have some logos on their website of known companies?

And much more

Connect with Yash

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ypatel1/

yashpatel135@gmail.com

David Kaufman is the Director of Global Strategies at Nixon Peabody LLP. In this role, he manages and helps develop strategy for the firm’s International Practice, international offices, and relationships with law firms around the world. David works extensively with clients from the United States doing business around the globe and international clients in the U.S. Last year, David was involved in transactions, cases, and other matters touching almost 140 different countries. He has a long history of doing business in China and has worked with NP’s robust Asia-Pacific practice since its creation. Outside the U.S., NP has offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Singapore, and London. During his tenure, David has served in a variety of leadership positions at the firm, including supervising the regional business development function and leading sales teams for an array of practice groups/industries. Since March 2020, David has also been coordinating the firm's external, client-facing Coronavirus Response Team. In addition, he co-leads the Retail Industry Sector team for TerraLex, one of the largest global law firm networks covering 164 jurisdictions in 101 countries.

How should companies go about thinking of networking and community building?

When should a company join a chamber of commerce and how should they position themselves to get the most out of it?

Are they certain “gotchas” in laws or the ways companies conduct business when they enter new countries?

Startups when they expand to a new country what should they be thinking?

Connect with David

(20) David Kaufman | LinkedIn

dkaufman@nixonpeabody.com

In 1992, with only $15,000 of capital he co-founded DiManno/Hansen Insurance & Investment

Services and in less than 6 years sold to Acordia-Wells Fargo for $6.5 million. He has also been the President of other high growth insurance companies such as Intercare Insurance, a $50 million holding company, in which he oversaw their worker’s compensation TPA, managed care enterprise, VIIA, their wholesale and retail brokerage. In 2011, he co-founded, built, and sold 2018 VForce Staffing Solutions.

As a serial entrepreneur, Michael has co-founded commercial developments, restaurants, a private investigation company, and an organic soap company, all while serving as a seed capital investor and board member for multiple technology startups like Flash Seats, an electronic ticketing company with patented technology in the sports and entertainment world. His consulting assignments include companies like Sherries Berries, multiple staffing companies, and insurance giant Keenan & Associates. He also spent 5 years in the Sacramento Chapter of the Young Entrepreneurs Organization (YEO.)

Michael graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. He also is a CAWC, or Certified Authority on Workers Compensation, an Expert Witness for the Department of Insurance, and a top producer in the Circle of Excellence with Vensure Employer Services.

We talk about:

How do you balance hiring for growth and efficiency of capital?

What is a PEO Service?

Some suggestions for other companies out there as they plan for the potential growth of their company?

What is the current dispute resolution process?

Why are the Workers Comp systems broken?

Connect with Michael

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedimanno/

• 235.1477(Work)
• samuelhale.com (Company)
• mikedimanno.com (Personal)

On his radio show, The Good Life Made Better, Stephen made complex ideas understandable. Executives and Professionals, wealthy investors, and business owners, want a steady hand to help them choose practical ideas so they can do their work and not worry about their money.

Our Mission at Lovell Wealth Management is "to help Americans preserve their heritage, because without heritage every generation must start over. We deliver comprehensive financial advice that is objective, specific, and confidential, in order to protect our clients and their heirs from financial risks."

Stephen has been featured in numerous publications, including MoneyMagazine, InvestmentNews, New York Times, USA Today, Business Week, Wall Street Journal, Financial Planning, Huffington Post, U.S. News and World Report, and Time Magazine.

We talk about

What are some common ways that people pass down generational wealth?

What is the future of generational wealth, and how might it change as society and the economy evolve?

How does the tax code affect generational wealth?

How can families ensure that their wealth is used for positive purposes across multiple generations?

Connect with Stephen

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenflovell2/

4152548719 

lovellwealthmanagement.com 

Transformational technology executive who delivers game-changing results by anticipating the future, obsessing over customers and building amazing teams. Humans create the future; technology is a tool.

- Board Director and Chair of Comp Committee for NYSE IPO.

- Advisor to tech leaders making bold and courageous moves that will bend the trajectory of the world.

We talk about:

How has building products in Silicon Valley changed over time?

Where in the decision-making chain does the focus on the customer gets lost?

What are some brand-building strategies for startups?

How is OpenAI/ChatGPT, as well as web3, being discussed in new product development these days?

Connect with Tatyana

(2) Tatyana Mamut

Dan Abbate is an entrepreneur, thought leader, and investor with a career-long focus in business process optimization and automation using advanced technology, organizational development, and continuous improvement. Dan has a heavy transaction background including startup financing, mergers and acquisitions, and turnarounds. As an investor, Dan’s focus is on capital preservation, fixed-income and cash flow through a variety of investment vehicles in operating

We talk about:

What does a “Chief Problem Solver” at a company do?  

When to replace staff with software?

What is the thought process when building customized software for a company vs buying a 3rd party license?

Strategies when acquiring a company

And much more

Connect with Dan

(2) Dan Abbate | LinkedIn

• Twitter robotaton
• dan@thebigda.com

CEO, Board Member, Best-Selling Author, and Acclaimed International Speaker, Adam Coffey is a visionary leader who drives transformative growth and fosters high-performance cultures.

With 21+ years of experience as CEO, Adam led three national private equity-backed service companies for 9 private equity sponsors. During this time period he completed 58 acquisitions, his track record includes notable outcomes measured in the billions, averaging 5x MOIC at exit.

Adam is a respected mentor to MBA candidates and a sought-after speaker at UCLA. He brings diverse expertise from commercial and industrial service businesses, alongside being a licensed general contractor, pilot, former GE executive, and US Army veteran.

As an author, Adam's books "The Private Equity Playbook" and "The Exit Strategy Playbook" became #1 Amazon Best Sellers. Recognized as one of the "Most Influential Leaders" by the Orange County Business Journal, he founded the CEO Advisory Guru in 2021, providing consulting services to private equity firms, their portfolio companies and to founders.

Adam's impactful seminars have generated millions in revenue, solidifying his position as one of the world's top speakers. He resides in Westlake, TX, with his family.

We talk about:

How should one go about evaluating Private Equity groups when looking to be acquired?

What are the roles of consultants in a Private Equity Deal?

What is rolling over equity in a transaction and how that can become a residual income streams?

There are many mastermind groups here in Silicon Valley, what should one look for when they are thinking of joining one?

How did Adam get the nickname “The Chairman”?

And much more…

Connect with Adam

https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamecoffey/