I'm on the board of 5 startups as a strategic advisor which I love doing but as a speaker most of the events I attend and brands I work with are industry, enterprise or larger association. This past week one of the startups I advice, Fledge Connect, placed in the top 50 for the Startup Grind competition allowing them to go to the global event in Redwood Ca to pitch VC's, have a booth and participate in the event.

Although I had heard of Startup Grind, this was my first time attending one of their events and this global one is a big one with over 7k startups and 2 full days of speakers.

When arriving at events I always try to have done research prior on previous years while also seeing how they try to set themselves a part and the first sign I saw at Startup Grind set the vibe for the entire event and inspired this podcast episode.

The sign said simply "Our Values"

1. Help Others - before yourself
2. Give First - don't take
3. Make Friends - not contacts

Many events preach community and collaboration but seldom is it something built into the culture of company, the event and all of the attendees.

I was so inspired I decided to breakdown a few key things that stood out to me!

• Derek Anderson is the real deal and lives his values!
• Startup Bootcamp advice for pitching was intense
• What I noticed after watching 50 startups give 1 minute pitches
• VC's opinion of marketing and its value or lack of value for startups
• Vulnerability was a theme on stage and amongst startups
• Everyone there was there because they wanted to help, give and make friends and we can all learn from that!

Check out www.StartupGrind.com as they have 350+ locations around the globe. I wasn't paid to be there or paid to create this show but I left the event so inspired I had to share it with you guys only hours after getting home from a red-eye. I hope you enjoy!