The Silicon Valley Podcast: Recent Episodes
Shawn Flynn
We open a window into the minds of the most successful leaders, investors, creators, and inventors — sharing Silicon Valley business acumen with entrepreneurs around the world.
No. 1 Silicon Valley ”Podcast Must Follow in 2020 & 2021” - Feedspot
What does it really take to build a successful startup—and what conventional wisdom about venture capital might be wrong?
On this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, we sit down with Brian Mac Mahon, founder of Expert DOJO, to explore the realities of early-stage investing, startup valuations, venture capital, and the evolving global entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Brian shares the story behind Expert DOJO and offers an insider's perspective on what he looks for in founding teams, why early-stage valuation matters, and the risks entrepreneurs face when a company is valued too aggressively too early.
The conversation takes a candid turn as Brian discusses some of his more controversial views about the startup ecosystem, including accepted industry practices he disagrees with and predictions that have proven accurate. We also explore whether the traditional venture capital model is being disrupted, why the Venture Studio trend has cooled, and how family offices approach venture risk differently from traditional limited partners.
With California continuing to navigate political and economic changes, Brian weighs in on how those factors may affect startup formation, talent, and the ability to retain companies locally.
We also look beyond Silicon Valley to explore emerging international startup ecosystems and what regions may be building the next generation of entrepreneurial communities.
In This Episode* Brian Mac Mahon's journey to founding Expert DOJO * What investors should look for in founding teams * The importance—and risks—of early-stage startup valuations * Why overvaluation can create problems for founders * Whether traditional venture capital is being disrupted * The rise and cooling of Venture Studios * How family offices evaluate venture capital risk * California's startup and economic environment * Startup industry standards Brian challenges * Controversial startup beliefs that proved accurate * Regulatory changes that could benefit entrepreneurs * Emerging international startup ecosystems * How to think about defensible early-stage valuations
About Brian Mac MahonBrian Mac Mahon is the founder of Expert DOJO, an early-stage startup accelerator and investment platform. He works with entrepreneurs and investors across the startup ecosystem and brings a perspective shaped by experience in venture investing, entrepreneurship, and global startup communities.
Connect with Brian:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmacmahon2/
Expert DOJO:
https://www.expertdojo.com/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Discussions of startups, valuations, venture capital, private investments, and regulatory matters are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation, solicitation, or offer to buy or sell any security. Listeners should conduct their own due diligence and consult qualified professional advisors before making investment or business decisions.
SiliconValleyPodcast #VentureCapital #Startups #Entrepreneurship #StartupInvesting #VentureCapitalInvesting #StartupValuation #AngelInvesting #FamilyOffices #Innovation
Leadership, Purpose & Building a Scalable Business with Reed NyffelerEpisode OverviewWhat can Silicon Valley founders learn from the world of franchising?
In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, we sit down with Reed Nyffeler, entrepreneur, CEO, founder of Signal, and host of ReedFlections: A Podcast on Life, Leadership, and Learning.
Reed's journey offers a different perspective from the traditional Silicon Valley founder story. Rather than coming from a coding or engineering background, he has built his career around entrepreneurship, business ownership, leadership, capital strategy, and creating scalable organizations.
As CEO and founder of Signal, a rapidly growing security services franchisor, Reed has focused on building a business designed not only to provide security services, but also to create opportunities for entrepreneurs and communities.
The conversation explores how Reed approached raising capital from individual investors and private equity, the strategy behind eventually buying out those investors, and the lessons he learned about structuring agreements and building long-term enterprise value.
Reed also shares his perspective on evaluating businesses, including the metrics and characteristics he looks for when deciding whether an opportunity has the potential to create lasting value.
For Silicon Valley founders thinking about what comes after technology entrepreneurship, Reed explains why he has favored B2B business models, what founders should consider when entering franchising, and how technology—including point-of-sale systems and proprietary software—can become an important part of scaling a traditionally service-oriented business.
The conversation also goes beyond business.
Reed discusses his philosophy around purpose, intentionality, discipline, faith, family, and leadership, including the different dimensions of leadership that executives must develop as their organizations grow.
As AI continues to reshape industries and business models, Reed also explores which types of businesses may remain resilient and what entrepreneurs can do to build a defensible competitive advantage.
This episode is ultimately about more than building a company. It's about building a life, developing leaders, creating opportunities for others, and pursuing a purpose that extends beyond financial success.
In This Episode* Reed Nyffeler's entrepreneurial journey and career * Building a successful company without a traditional coding or technology background * Raising capital from individual investors and private equity * Structuring agreements with investors * The strategy behind buying out early investors * How entrepreneurs should evaluate potential business opportunities * The characteristics that create long-term enterprise value * Why Reed has focused primarily on B2B rather than B2C * The future of franchising in an increasingly AI-driven economy * Building a defensible competitive moat * What prospective franchisees should evaluate before joining a franchise system * Understanding franchise unit economics at scale * What Silicon Valley founders can learn from franchising * The importance of point-of-sale technology and proprietary software * Scaling operations through technology * The evolution of employee expectations and motivations * Developing the next generation of leaders * The different dimensions of leadership * Building a company with global impact * Balancing entrepreneurship, family, purpose, and legacy
Key ThemesBuilding Long-Term Business ValueReed shares how he evaluates businesses beyond short-term revenue growth and what characteristics can create sustainable enterprise value.
The Franchise ModelFor technology founders accustomed to venture-backed startups, franchising offers a very different approach to scaling. Reed explains the economics, advantages, and challenges of building a high-growth franchise organization.
B2B vs. B2CWhy has Reed prioritized B2B businesses? The conversation explores the characteristics that make B2B models attractive and how entrepreneurs should think about customer relationships and recurring business value.
AI & the Future of BusinessAs artificial intelligence transforms industries, Reed considers which business models may be more resilient and how entrepreneurs can develop competitive advantages that are difficult to replicate.
Leadership Beyond the BusinessReed's philosophy extends beyond business performance. He discusses purpose, intentionality, discipline, mentorship, family, and the responsibility leaders have to develop the people around them.
About Reed NyffelerReed Nyffeler is an entrepreneur, business owner, CEO, and founder of Signal, a fast-growing security services franchisor.
His entrepreneurial philosophy is centered around taking control of one's life, identifying a true purpose, and pursuing that purpose with intentionality, discipline, and a strong sense of values.
Reed is also passionate about developing the next generation of leaders and helping aspiring entrepreneurs identify their purpose and achieve their goals.
Outside of his professional life, Reed is a husband and father of four. He places a strong emphasis on balancing professional achievement with family, meaning, and legacy.
Reed also hosts ReedFlections: A Podcast on Life, Leadership, and Learning, where he explores purposeful living, leadership, personal development, and lessons learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey.
Connect with ReedLinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/reednyffeler/
ReedFlections:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/reedflections-podcast/
Who Should ListenThis episode is particularly relevant for:
- Silicon Valley founders
- Entrepreneurs considering franchising
- Technology executives
- Venture-backed founders
- Private equity professionals
- Business owners
- Franchise investors and operators
- CEOs and executives
- Emerging leaders
- Anyone interested in purpose-driven entrepreneurship
Final TakeawayBuilding a successful company is only one part of the entrepreneurial journey.
For Reed Nyffeler, the bigger question is what that success enables: developing people, creating opportunities, supporting family, building meaningful organizations, and ultimately creating a legacy that extends beyond the founder.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Any discussion of businesses, investments, capital raising, private equity, franchising, valuations, or other financial matters is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation, solicitation, or offer to buy or sell any security or investment. Listeners should conduct their own due diligence and consult with their own qualified legal, tax, accounting, and financial advisors before making any business or investment decision.
SiliconValleyPodcast #SiliconValley #Entrepreneurship #Franchising #BusinessLeadership #Leadership #Entrepreneur #BusinessGrowth #B2B #PrivateEquity #BusinessStrategy #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #PurposeDrivenLeadership #ExecutiveLeadership
What happens when a seasoned hedge fund executive applies decades of institutional investing experience to building AI-powered software for the world's most sophisticated financial firms?
In this episode of Silicon Valley Successes, host Shawn Flynn sits down with Jan Szilagyi, Founder and CEO of Reflexivity, to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, capital markets, and enterprise software.
Drawing from his unique career spanning both hedge funds and technology startups, Jan shares what it takes to build software for one of the most demanding customer bases in the world—professional investors managing billions of dollars. He explains why today's competitive advantage is shifting from simply having access to information to asking better questions, and how AI is transforming the investment process.
The conversation explores how hedge funds are evolving in the age of generative AI, what institutional investors are actually looking for from AI platforms, and how founders can avoid common mistakes when building and pricing AI-driven software products.
Jan also discusses the realities of selling enterprise AI solutions in an increasingly crowded market, why customer education has become one of the biggest challenges for AI startups, and how Reflexivity helps investment firms uncover insights that traditional research methods often overlook.
Whether you're building an AI company, investing in technology, or simply curious about how artificial intelligence is reshaping financial markets, this episode offers practical insights from someone who has successfully navigated both Wall Street and Silicon Valley.
In This Episode* Jan Szilagyi's journey from hedge funds to technology entrepreneur * What life inside a modern hedge fund is really like * How AI is changing institutional investing * Why asking better questions is becoming more valuable than having more data * Identifying investment opportunities with AI * Building versus buying enterprise software * The future of AI-powered investment research * Educating enterprise customers on AI adoption * Converting AI curiosity into measurable business value * Pricing strategies for early-stage AI software companies * Lessons learned selling into sophisticated financial institutions * How Reflexivity helps investors uncover hidden market insights
Key Takeaways* AI is becoming a force multiplier rather than a replacement for human judgment. * The firms that ask better questions will outperform those with simply more data. * Enterprise AI adoption depends as much on trust and workflow integration as model performance. * Pricing AI software should evolve as customer value and product intelligence increase. * Building for institutional investors requires exceptional reliability, transparency, and measurable outcomes.
About Jan SzilagyiJan Szilagyi is the Founder and CEO of Reflexivity, an AI-powered platform designed to help institutional investors and financial professionals extract deeper insights from vast amounts of information. With a background spanning hedge funds and technology entrepreneurship, Jan combines expertise in investing, data analysis, and artificial intelligence to build tools that improve investment research and decision-making.
Who Should ListenThis episode is ideal for:
- Startup founders
- Venture capital and private equity professionals
- Hedge fund and asset management executives
- AI founders and product leaders
- Financial technology entrepreneurs
- Enterprise software executives
- Investors interested in AI applications
- Anyone curious about the future of intelligent investing
Connect with Jan SzilagyiLinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-szilagyi-12284ab/
Website:
https://reflexivity.com/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Any discussion of investment strategies, artificial intelligence, financial markets, or specific technologies is intended solely for educational purposes and should not be considered investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any security.
SiliconValleySuccesses #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #GenerativeAI #FinTech #HedgeFunds #EnterpriseAI #InvestmentResearch #MachineLearning #VentureCapital #AssetManagement #SaaS #StartupFounder #TechnologyLeadership #Innovation
Episode OverviewWhat if you could invest in some of the world's most valuable private technology companies—before they ever go public?
In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, host Shawn Flynn sits down with Mark Klein, CEO of Neostellar Capital, one of the few publicly traded venture capital firms providing investors with exposure to late-stage private companies. Neostellar 's portfolio includes investments in some of the most influential technology companies of the AI era, including OpenAI, Canva, Whoop, Vast Data, and it was also an early investor in CoreWeave.
Mark shares how Neostellar 's "Public VC" model opens the door for public market investors to participate in venture-backed innovation—an opportunity that has traditionally been reserved for institutional investors and elite venture capital firms.
The discussion dives into one of Neostellar 's most notable investments: its $17.5 million investment in OpenAI during the company's September 2024 funding round. As OpenAI's valuation has risen dramatically, Mark explains what that means for Neostellar shareholders and how the firm evaluates opportunities in today's rapidly evolving AI investment landscape..
Beyond AI, Mark provides a behind-the-scenes look at the venture capital ecosystem, discussing secondary markets, companies remaining private longer, valuation discipline, and the unique challenges of operating a publicly traded venture capital firm while investing in private businesses.
Whether you're a founder, investor, venture capitalist, or simply fascinated by the intersection of AI and capital markets, this episode provides valuable insight into how some of today's most sought-after private companies become investment opportunities.
In This Episode* Mark Klein's path to leading Neostellar Capital * Understanding the Public Venture Capital model * Why private companies are staying private longer * Investing in OpenAI before its valuation surge * Lessons from being an early CoreWeave investor * The future of AI infrastructure investing * The growing role of secondary markets in venture investing * Balancing public company transparency with private company confidentiality * Where Mark sees the next wave of technology investment opportunities
About Mark KleinMark Klein is the Chief Executive Officer of Neostellar Capital Corp. (NASDAQ: SSSS), a publicly traded venture capital firm focused on investing in high-growth, venture-backed private technology companies. Since its inception, Neostellar has provided public market investors with access to companies that traditionally remain unavailable until IPO, building a portfolio that includes OpenAI, Canva, Whoop, Vast Data, CoreWeave, and numerous other category-defining businesses.
Key Takeaways* Public markets can provide exposure to private innovation through specialized investment vehicles. * Secondary markets have become an increasingly important source of liquidity and deal flow. * Companies staying private longer have fundamentally changed venture investing. * Successful venture investing requires balancing long-term conviction with disciplined valuation analysis.
Connect with Mark KleinLinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-klein-6a5b72198/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial or legal, tax, or investment advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Any discussion of investments, valuations, or portfolio companies is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any security. Investors should conduct their own due diligence and consult their professional advisors before making any investment decisions.
SiliconValleySuccesses #VentureCapital #PrivateMarkets #OpenAI #ArtificialIntelligence #AIInfrastructure #CoreWeave #TensorWave #AMD #NVIDIA #PublicMarkets #NASDAQ #StartupInvesting #Innovation
Private markets continue to evolve, and Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) have become one of the most important tools for investors seeking access to high-growth private companies. But behind every SPV is a complex legal and operational structure that many investors don't fully understand.
In this episode, we sit down with Mitch Mechigian, an experienced private markets professional specializing in SPV management and venture investing. Mitch shares what happens behind the scenes of structuring, administering, and managing SPVs throughout their full lifecycle—from formation and investor onboarding to governance, reporting, distributions, and exits.
Whether you're an angel investor, venture capitalist, founder, family office, or someone looking to better understand private market investing, this episode provides a practical look at how SPVs work, the risks investors should evaluate, and how the rapidly growing secondary market is changing access to private company investments.
In This Episode* Mitch's career journey into venture investing and SPV management * What Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) are and why they're widely used * Lessons learned from managing SPVs throughout their lifecycle * Understanding counterparty risk and why it matters * The difference between direct (first-layer) and indirect (second-layer) SPV investments * Investor rights, reporting obligations, K-1s, and ongoing communications * How share classes and liquidation preferences impact secondary pricing * Navigating Rights of First Refusal (ROFR) in private company transactions * Typical fee structures in SPVs and who pays them * The future of venture secondaries and private market liquidity
Key Takeaways* SPVs provide efficient access to private investment opportunities but require careful structuring and administration. * Investors should understand not only the underlying company but also the legal and economic structure of the SPV itself. * Share class rights, governance provisions, and transfer restrictions can materially affect investment outcomes. * As companies remain private longer, secondary markets and SPVs are becoming increasingly important components of the venture capital ecosystem. * Understanding information rights, fees, and counterparty risk is essential before investing in any SPV.
About Mitch MechigianMitch Mechigian is a private markets professional with extensive experience in venture investing, SPV administration, and private capital transactions. Throughout his career, he has worked with founders, investors, and fund managers to structure and manage investment vehicles that provide access to private companies while navigating the operational, legal, and reporting complexities of private market investing.
Who Should Listen* Angel Investors * Venture Capital Investors * Family Offices * Startup Founders * Investment Bankers * Private Market Professionals * Emerging Fund Managers * Finance Students * Anyone interested in venture capital and private market investing
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Any discussion of private investments, securities, or investment strategies is general in nature and should not be relied upon as a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any security. Investors should conduct their own due diligence and consult their professional advisors before making any investment decisions.
PrivateMarkets #VentureCapital #SPV #Secondaries #StartupInvesting #PrivateEquity #AngelInvesting #SiliconValley #BusinessPodcast #TheSiliconValleyPodcast
For decades, investing in high-growth private companies was reserved for venture capital firms and institutional investors. Today, the rapidly evolving secondary market is changing that landscape—creating new opportunities for founders, employees, early investors, and institutions to access liquidity long before an IPO.
In this episode, we sit down with Brianne Lynch, a venture and private markets expert whose career spans traditional finance, startups, hedge funds, and venture capital. After beginning her career in relationship management and financial services, Brianne made the leap into the startup world before joining EquityZen, where she has become a leading voice on venture secondaries and private market investing.
Having worked across sales, partnerships, strategy, market intelligence, business development, and research, Brianne has had a front-row seat to the explosive growth of the secondary market. Her insights have been featured by CNBC, Bloomberg, The New York Times, and Yahoo Finance, making her one of the industry's most recognized voices on private market liquidity.
Whether you're a founder considering liquidity options, an investor exploring venture secondaries, or simply curious about how private markets really work, this conversation provides an inside look at one of the fastest-growing segments of venture capital.
In This Episode* Brianne's journey from traditional finance to startups and venture secondaries * What venture secondaries are—and why they matter * Why the secondary market has earned the reputation as the "Wild West" * Understanding SPVs, secondary structures, and common industry terminology * How companies influence employee and investor liquidity * What investors should evaluate before investing in secondary transactions * Why so many intermediaries exist in private market transactions * How secondary markets impact startup financing and IPO decisions * The growing role of Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) in venture investing * Resources for learning more about private markets and venture secondaries
Key Takeaways* Venture secondaries are transforming how liquidity is created in private markets. * Understanding transaction structures is just as important as evaluating the underlying company. * Company participation can significantly influence pricing, access, and transaction success. * A healthy secondary market can strengthen employee retention and investor alignment. * As companies stay private longer, secondary markets are becoming an increasingly important part of the venture capital ecosystem.
About Brianne LynchBrianne Lynch is a venture and private markets professional with experience spanning financial services, startups, hedge funds, and alternative investments. At EquityZen, she has worked across multiple functions including partnerships, strategy, market intelligence, business development, operations, and research, helping educate investors and entrepreneurs about the rapidly evolving venture secondary market. Brianne is also a frequent media contributor, providing commentary on venture capital and private markets for leading financial news organizations.
Who Should Listen* Startup founders * Venture capital investors * Angel investors * Family offices * Employees with startup equity * Private market investors * Financial advisors * Anyone interested in venture capital and alternative investments
Venturecapital #angel #startups #secondaries #VC
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute investment, legal, tax, or financial advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Any discussion of securities, private investments, or investment strategies is general in nature and should not be relied upon as a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any security. Listeners should consult their own professional advisors before making any investment or financial decisions.
Investing Beyond the Pitch & Building Great Companies with Alex ChompffWhat separates legendary venture capital firms from everyone else? How do experienced angel investors identify startups with the greatest potential before everyone else sees it?
In this episode, we sit down with Alex Chompff, an accomplished entrepreneur, angel investor, and venture capital executive whose career has included working alongside some of Silicon Valley's most influential investment firms, including Kleiner Perkins, Mayfield, Sequoia Capital, and the Barksdale Group. Alex has also played an active role in California's innovation ecosystem through startup mentoring, angel investing with Sacramento Angels, and advising emerging technology companies.
Drawing from decades of experience evaluating entrepreneurs, funding innovation, and navigating rapidly changing markets—including the evolution of cryptocurrency and emerging technologies—Alex shares practical insights for founders, investors, and anyone interested in building successful businesses.
Whether you're raising capital, making your first angel investment, or simply curious about how world-class investors think, this conversation provides an inside look at what separates exceptional companies from the rest.
In This Episode* Alex's journey through some of Silicon Valley's most respected venture capital firms * What the best VC firms consistently do differently * Lessons learned from working with legendary investors * How angel investors develop an investment thesis * The characteristics that matter more than financial projections * How experienced investors evaluate founders and leadership teams * Common mistakes first-time angel investors and VCs make * Why long-term success depends on much more than market size * The evolving startup landscape and opportunities for entrepreneurs
Key Takeaways* Great venture investing is driven by pattern recognition and disciplined decision-making. * Exceptional founders often stand out through resilience, adaptability, and execution rather than perfect business plans. * Financial metrics tell only part of the story—leadership, culture, and market timing can be equally important. * Successful investors develop repeatable frameworks instead of relying on instinct alone. * Long-term value creation comes from backing great teams solving meaningful problems.
Featured GuestAlex Chompff
Alex Chompff has built an impressive career spanning venture capital, entrepreneurship, startup advisory, and angel investing. Having worked with firms such as Kleiner Perkins, Mayfield, Sequoia Capital, and the Barksdale Group, he brings firsthand experience from the heart of Silicon Valley's innovation ecosystem. Alex continues to support entrepreneurs and early-stage companies through mentoring, investing, and leadership within Sacramento Angels.
Memorable Discussion Topics* What makes iconic venture capital firms consistently successful? * How do experienced investors recognize exceptional founders? * What should entrepreneurs know before approaching angel investors? * Why investment decisions extend well beyond spreadsheets and market analysis. * The biggest misconceptions new investors have about startup investing.
Connect with AlexLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexchompff/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC. Listeners should consult their own professional advisors before making any investment or business decisions.
Guest: Carrie Freeman
Title: CEO, Eden Radioisotopes
Company: Eden Radioisotopes, LLC
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-freeman/
Episode OverviewIn this episode, we sit down with Carrie Freeman, CEO of Eden Radioisotopes, to explore the intersection of deep science, commercialization, and leadership. After spending 15 years at Intel and serving as a multi-time CEO, Carrie has built a career around transforming breakthrough technologies into scalable businesses.
We discuss what it takes to commercialize innovations emerging from national laboratories, the resurgence of the nuclear industry, and why private capital is increasingly driving the next generation of nuclear technologies. Carrie also shares her perspective on leadership transitions, fundraising for long-horizon ventures, and how organizations can remain focused on human impact while operating at the cutting edge of science.
Topics Covered* Lessons learned from a 15-year career at Intel and their application to nuclear science * Leading established organizations through executive transitions * Commercializing technologies developed inside national laboratories * The current state of the nuclear industry and emerging market opportunities * Turning regulatory complexity into a sustainable competitive advantage * Building and positioning a company that spans healthcare, energy, and security markets * Communicating transformational opportunities to investors without losing credibility * Differences between Family Office, Venture Capital, and Private Equity investors * Managing investor expectations through long commercialization timelines * Creating a mission-driven culture around "Precision Science, Human Impact"
Key Discussion PointsFrom Semiconductors to Nuclear ScienceCarrie reflects on the most important lessons learned during her tenure at Intel and explains how principles of operational excellence, precision, and scalability transfer directly into the highly regulated nuclear industry.
Leading on Day OneAs a multi-time CEO, Carrie shares her framework for entering an organization, building trust quickly, assessing priorities, and establishing momentum without disrupting existing strengths.
Commercializing Deep TechnologyMoving a breakthrough technology from a national laboratory into the private sector presents unique challenges. Carrie discusses the critical steps required to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and market adoption.
The Nuclear RenaissanceThe conversation explores why nuclear technologies are experiencing renewed interest and how private-sector companies are accelerating innovation across healthcare, energy, and national security applications.
Regulation as a Competitive AdvantageRather than viewing regulation solely as a barrier, Carrie explains how companies can leverage regulatory expertise to create durable competitive moats and strengthen market positioning.
Raising Capital for Long-Term InnovationDeep-tech ventures often require patient capital and extended development timelines. Carrie shares insights on communicating vision, maintaining investor confidence, and aligning expectations for long-term value creation.
Building Mission-Driven TeamsWith the company tagline "Precision Science, Human Impact," Carrie discusses how leaders can keep teams connected to the real-world impact of their work while navigating complex scientific and technical challenges.
About Carrie FreemanCarrie Freeman is the CEO of Eden Radioisotopes and an experienced technology executive with leadership experience spanning semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, and nuclear science. Her career includes 15 years at Intel and multiple CEO roles focused on commercializing breakthrough technologies and scaling innovation-driven organizations.
About Eden RadioisotopesEden Radioisotopes develops advanced nuclear technologies that support applications across healthcare, energy, and security. The company's mission is captured in its guiding principle: "Precision Science. Human Impact."
Learn more: https://edenrad.com/
Connect with Carrie FreemanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-freeman/
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.
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In this episode, we sit down with entrepreneur, investor, and fintech innovator Joshua Summers to discuss startups, venture capital, private credit, artificial intelligence, and what founders need to know to survive today's fundraising environment.
Josh is a serial entrepreneur with successful exits to PayPal and AT&T, and the co-founder of EnFi, a company modernizing credit risk assessment for the rapidly growing $2+ trillion private credit market. He is also the co-founder of TBD Angels, an angel investing community that has grown to more than 300 members and invested in over 80 startups.
The conversation explores lessons learned from multiple exits, the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, the evolution of fintech, how AI is changing startup economics, and what separates companies that survive difficult markets from those that disappear.
In This EpisodeFrom Startup Founder to Multiple Successful ExitsJosh reflects on his entrepreneurial journey and the major lessons learned from building and scaling companies that were ultimately acquired by PayPal and AT&T.
The discussion covers:
- What changes after a successful exit
- Common founder mistakes during growth phases
- Building teams that scale
- Why culture matters more than most founders realize
The Silicon Valley Bank Collapse and the Birth of EnFiDuring the SVB crisis, Josh worked directly with startups attempting to move funds and navigate uncertainty in real time.
What he discovered exposed a major weakness in modern lending infrastructure:
- Opaque credit monitoring
- Manual underwriting processes
- Covenant complexity
- Limited real-time portfolio visibility
These insights ultimately led to the creation of EnFi, which is focused on transforming risk analysis and monitoring in private credit markets.
Building an Angel Investing CommunityAs co-founder of TBD Angels, Josh shares insights into what it takes to build and sustain a successful angel investing organization.
Topics include:
- How to start an angel group
- Why most angel groups fail
- Creating long-term engagement and trust
- The benefits founders gain from becoming investors themselves
- Building a high-quality investment community
Fundraising in a Difficult MarketThe episode dives into the realities founders face when capital markets tighten.
Josh discusses:
- How founders can "manufacture momentum" during fundraising
- The psychology of investors in difficult markets
- Managing down rounds and flat rounds
- Maintaining team morale during capital pressure
- The KPIs investors now consider mandatory
Investment Bankers: Advisors or Expensive Middlemen?Many founders question whether investment bankers truly add value during fundraising or M&A processes.
Josh offers a candid perspective on:
- The real role of an investment banker
- What bankers do behind the scenes
- Why process management matters
- How founders should evaluate potential banking partners
- The difference between a transactional banker and a strategic advisor
The Future of FintechThe conversation explores how financial technology continues to evolve and why many businesses are increasingly becoming fintech-enabled companies.
Topics include:
- Embedded finance
- Infrastructure APIs
- Lending technology
- Risk management
- AI-driven financial products
- The convergence of software and financial services
AI-Enabled vs AI-First CompaniesOne of the most important discussions in the episode focuses on the difference between:
- Companies adding AI features to existing products
- Businesses fundamentally built around AI from day one
Josh explains:
- Why the distinction matters
- Which companies may have defensible advantages
- The risks of superficial AI positioning
- What investors are really looking for
Key Themes* Entrepreneurship
• Venture Capital
• Angel Investing
• Private Credit
• Fintech
• Artificial Intelligence
• Startup Fundraising
• Silicon Valley Bank
• Investment Banking
• Company Building
• Leadership
• Risk Management
About Joshua SummersJoshua Summers is a serial entrepreneur, fintech founder, and angel investor with successful exits to PayPal and AT&T. He is the co-founder of EnFi, a company focused on modernizing credit risk assessment and monitoring for private credit markets, and co-founder of TBD Angels, a 300+ member angel investing network that has invested in more than 80 startups.
Josh is passionate about combining technical excellence with human insight to build companies that create meaningful impact.
Fintech #ArtificialIntelligence #PrivateCredit #Startups #VentureCapital #AngelInvesting #Entrepreneurship #JoshuaSummers #InvestmentBanking #Fundraising #AI #FintechInnovation
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.
Episode SummaryWhat does selling used cars have to do with leading a world-class AI translation platform? More than you might think. In this episode, we sit down with Bryan Murphy, the CEO of Smartling, to pull back the curtain on executive leadership in the age of AI.
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.
Key Takeaways* 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).
Featured Guest: Bryan MurphyBryan 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
Resources Mentioned* The 80/20 Principle (Pareto Principle) * Smartling’s AI Translation Platform * The First 100 Days Leadership Framework
What happens when you apply deep operational experience to the massive, complex budget of the world’s fifth-largest economy? In this episode, we sit down with California gubernatorial candidate, author, and political commentator Steve Hilton.
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.
Key Discussion Points & Timeline* 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.
Featured Guest Links* Official Campaign Website: Steve Hilton for Governor * Biography & Background: Steve Hilton on Wikipedia
⚖️ Compliance DisclaimerDisclaimer: 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.
What happens when you apply the raw, unfiltered mindset of a seasoned serial entrepreneur to the rigid world of state governance? In this episode, we sit down with designer, developer, and California gubernatorial candidate Elaine Culotti to pull back the curtain on the harsh realities of high-level business and public policy.
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.
🎧 Key Topics Covered in This Episode:* 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.
🔗 Connect with Elaine:* 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.
Episode Title: Artificial Organizations Host: Shawn Flynn Guest: Barry O’Reilly – Co-Founder of Nobody Studios, Author, and Executive Coach
Episode SummaryIn 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.
Key Discussion Points* 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.
Notable Quotes"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."
Resources & Links Mentioned* Guest Website: BarryOReilly.com * LinkedIn: Connect with Barry O’Reilly * Nobody Studios: nobodystudios.com * The Silicon Valley Podcast: thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
About the GuestBarry 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.
In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, we’re joined by Hussein Fazal, serial entrepreneur, investor, and the visionary behind Super.com (formerly SnapCommerce). With a track record that includes founding AdParlor (acquired by AdKnowledge), Hussein brings a wealth of insight into what it takes to build, pivot, and scale tech companies to massive success.
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
Guest: Matthew Le Merle, CEO & Managing Partner, Blockchain Coinvestors
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.
In This Episode: Decoding the Future of Finance and Emerging Blockchain UnicornsJoin 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 Inevitable Digital Shift* 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.
📈 Venture Investing in the Blockchain Space* 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?
💰 Understanding the Fund-of-Funds Model* 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.
🔗 Tokens, Tech, and the Future* 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.
Guest: Dan Fineberg, CTO and Co-founder, The Fusion Syndicate
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.
In This Episode: Beyond the Prompt — Building Strategic AI WorkflowsMany 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.
Podcast Show Notes: Alex Dantas (Circuit Launch & Mechlabs)Guest: Alex Dantas, CEO of Circuit Launch and Mechlabs
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexrfdantas/
About the Guest & CompaniesAlex 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)
Episode Highlights & Discussion PointsRobotics Today & Public Perception* 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?
Building & Funding a Robotics Startup* 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.
Investor Strategy & The Future* 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?
Connect with Alex Dantas & His Work* 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/
💖 Support Our Cause: Giving Hope to People in NeedThis 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.
DisclaimerThe 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
Podcast Show NotesGuest: Doug Merritt – CEO of Aviatrix, former CEO of Splunk Host: Shawn Flynn- Managing Director os SVH Capital
🔹 Episode SummaryIn 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.
🔹 Topics We Cover * 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
🔹 Connect with Doug MerrittLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-m-33169/
Learn more about Aviatrix: https://aviatrix.ai
🔹 DisclaimerDisclaimer: 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: Dr. Bijna Kotak Dasani, Founder of ArthAum Group
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
Guest: Tim Koller, Partner at McKinsey & Company and Co-Author of Valuation: Measuring and Managing the Value of Companies
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.
Guest: Lori Rosenkopf – Vice Dean of Entrepreneurship, Wharton School
BioLori 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.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode 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
DisclaimerThe 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.
How AI is Changing Deals & Global Development with Jeff Kafka and Brian Rogers Jeff Kafka
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.
Episode SummaryIn 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.
Key Discussion Points & TopicsI. The Power of Relationships and Networking (Jeff Kafka)* 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.
II. Technology, Government, and Global Development (Brian Rogers & Jeff Kafka)* 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.
III. The Future of Finance and Investment Banking* 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.
Learn More* 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.
Guest: Waseem Daher – Founder & Executive Chairman of Pilot
LinkedIn: Waseem Daher
Pilot: pilot.com | Founder Salary Report 2025
BioWaseem 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.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode* 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.
Guest: Shawn Villaron, Vice President of Customer and Strategic Initiatives, Office Product Group at Microsoft | Former VP & GM of PowerPoint | Bay Area Site Leader | Executive Sponsor of HOLA
Episode OverviewIn 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.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode* 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.
Key Questions We Discuss* 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?
About Shawn VillaronShawn 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.
Resources & Links* 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.
Podcast Show Notes: Pankaj Patel – Redefining Networking and Security in the Age of AIGuest: Pankaj Patel, Founder and CEO of Nile | Former EVP and Chief Development Officer at Cisco | Partner at JC2 Ventures | Senior Advisor at March Capital
Episode OverviewIn 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.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode* 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.
Key Questions We Discuss* 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?
About Pankaj PatelPankaj 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.
Connect with Pankaj Patel* LinkedIn: Pankaj Patel * Nile: https://nilesecure.com
DisclaimerThe 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
Join us for an insightful conversation with Taylor Brandt, a Partner at Headline, where we dive into the world of venture capital and B2B software. Taylor specializes in vertical SaaS, B2B marketplaces, and commerce infrastructure as a Partner in Headline’s
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
Mercedes Bent, formerly a Partner at Lightspeed, and a leading investor in fintech, AI, and consumer companies.
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.
Bio: Ross is a founder, engineer, and early-stage technology investor who focuses on helping significant ideas scale up. He believes in working with "amazing people who build products indistinguishable from magic." His unique strength lies in connecting people.
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.
Episode Summary:In this episode, we sit down with Ben Van Roo, CEO and Co-Founder of Legion Intelligence and a seasoned leader whose career spans building cutting-edge AI solutions for both the public and private sectors. From working with the Department of Defense at RAND to leading data science at Chegg, serving as EVP of National Security at Primer AI, and now driving innovation at Yurts, Ben brings a rare perspective on AI, leadership, and scaling technology for mission-critical environments.
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.
Key Topics Discussed:* 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.
Resources & Links:* 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.”
Guest: George Panagiotakopoulos, Innovation Ecosystem Development -Advisor, Berkeley SkyDeck
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.
Guest: Dr. Tom Coughlin, President, Coughlin Associates, IEEE Past President (2025)
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.
“Buying a Business the Right Way — Lessons from the Front Lines”
Guest: Jed Morris — Acquisition Entrepreneur, Operator, and Advisor
Connect with Jed on LinkedIn
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.
🎧 Episode Summary:In this episode, we sit down with Arto Bendiken, a self-taught polymath, technologist, and entrepreneur whose journey spans building custom software in Finland at 13, contributing to defense communications for the U.S. Navy, scaling blockchain infrastructure at Aurora Labs, and now launching Haltia.AI in Dubai.
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.
🧠 Key Topics Covered:* 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
🔥 Highlight Questions:* 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?
🌍 About the Guest: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
📚 Resources & Mentions: 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.”
Guest: Anita Koimur, Co-founder & COO of LiveFlow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitakoimur/
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.”
In this episode, we sit down with Ron Petrinovich, a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Freedom Equity Group (FEG). With deep roots in Silicon Valley and a legacy shaped by family, faith, and business acumen, Ron shares pivotal moments from his entrepreneurial journey—including multiple business restarts, scaling a company to national success, and eventually exiting in 2024.
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.
👤 Guest Bio: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.
💬 What You'll Learn in This Episode:* 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
🔑 Key Questions Covered:* 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?
🔗 Connect with Ron Petrinovich:🔹 Ron on LinkedIn
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.
In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, we sit down with Rick Otton, author of How to Sell Without Ever Saying a Word, and a global expert in communication, influence, and what he calls Subliminal Science.
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.
🔍 In This Episode, We Cover: 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)
🔗 Learn More About Rick:* Website: subliminalselling.co * LinkedIn: Rick Otton
💡 Quote from Rick:“You don’t need to be the smartest person in the room—you need to be the one asking the right questions.”
⚠️ 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.
Episode Summary:
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.
🔑 Topics Covered:* 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
🧠 Bonus Insights:* Hidden opportunities in lesser-known patent categories * Balancing innovation with business execution * The future of R&D intelligence in a world dominated by AI
👤 About Jeffrey Tiong: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
⚠️ Disclaimers: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.
In this episode, we sit down with Keshia Theobald-van Gent, a seasoned venture capital investor with deep expertise in fund economics, portfolio strategy, and founder alignment. Keshia shares her sharp insights into how today’s most successful VCs operate and what emerging fund managers and founders need to know to succeed in this dynamic ecosystem.
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.
🔍 Topics Covered:* 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.
💡 Bonus Insights (if time allows):* 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.
📬 Connect with Keshia:To follow Keshia’s work or reach out for collaboration, connect with her on LinkedIn.
📌 Disclaimer: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.”
Episode Description:
In this insightful episode, we sit down with Mohamed Ahmed—engineer-turned-founder, investor, and author—to explore the real mechanics of venture capital, startup life, and personal growth. Mo brings his unique perspective from launching a successful startup, exiting, and now advising others through the VC lens. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or someone navigating your own career transition, this episode is filled with real talk, valuable frameworks, and unfiltered stories you won’t want to miss.
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.
In this episode, Shawn sits down with John Bisack, an experienced operational strategist and advisor who specializes in helping private equity-backed companies navigate the critical post-acquisition phase. With a background in transforming businesses for profitability, growth, and long-term scalability, John brings deep insights into what it really takes to deliver on the promises of a private equity deal—beyond the closing table.
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.
🎧 What You’ll Learn:* 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
🔍 Topics Covered:* 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
📌 Guest Links:💼 LinkedIn: John Bisack
In this episode, Shawn sits down with Paul Adler, a veteran strategist in global revenue growth and a trusted advisor for companies entering the complex world of Federal Government markets. With decades of experience guiding businesses through the intricacies of federal contracting, Paul shares practical insights, battle-tested strategies, and hard-won lessons for founders and executives ready to scale through government channels.
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.
🎧 What You’ll Learn:* 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
🔍 Topics Covered:* 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
📌 Guest Links:* 🌐 Website: www.thepauladler.com * 📧 Email: linkedin.com/in/pauladler1
In this episode, we’re joined by Stan Christensen, a veteran dealmaker, negotiation expert, and founder of Arbor Advisors. With over two decades of experience teaching negotiation at Stanford University and leading high-stakes transactions in the tech world, Stan offers a masterclass in how to navigate complex deals, align incentives, and come out ahead—whether you're raising capital, selling your company, or simply trying to keep a negotiation from falling apart.
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.
💡 Topics Covered* 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
📚 Recommended Resources Influence by Robert Cialdini * How to Know a Person by David Brooks * Film: 12 Angry Men*
🔗 Connect with StanListen to Stan's Podcast All Things Negotiation - Podcast - Apple Podcasts
- Stan Christensen on LinkedIn
Episode OverviewToday’s guest is Shalabh Gupta, a visionary entrepreneur and the CEO of a publicly traded company. With deep experience in both public and private markets, Shalabh brings a mission-driven mindset to solving complex problems through innovation. In this episode, he shares his journey to the public markets, lessons learned from operating in the spotlight, and what it really takes to drive long-term shareholder value while staying true to your company’s core mission.
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.
💡 What You’ll Learn* 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
🔗 Connect with Shalabh📍 LinkedIn – Shalabh Gupta
Rahul Pangam — Entrepreneur, AI Strategist, and Founder
🎧 Episode Overview: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.
📝 Discussion Topics:✔️ 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
🎙️ Who Should Listen:* 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
📌 Connect with Rahul Pangam:LinkedIn Profile
In this episode, we sit down with Manish Patel, whose career has spanned Google, venture investing, and product innovation. From playing a pivotal role in scaling transformative products like AdWords and Google Maps to shaping Silicon Valley’s startup ecosystem, Manish brings invaluable insights from the front lines of technology, entrepreneurship, and venture capital.
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.
📝 Discussion Topics:✔️ 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
🎙️ Who Should Listen:* 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
In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, we sit down with Tom Eggemeier, CEO of Zendesk, to discuss the transformative power of AI Agents, the evolving landscape of M&A, and the future of customer experience. Tom shares his insights on how businesses can leverage AI to drive growth, the decision-making process behind strategic acquisitions, and what’s next for Zendesk.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ 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.
Key Questions We Discuss:🔹 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?
Connect with Tom Eggemeier & Zendesk:🔗 Tom’s LinkedIn
🔗 Zendesk Website
Email: Tom.eggemeier@zendesk.com
In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, we sit down with Cameron Herold, a world-renowned business leader, entrepreneur, and the mastermind behind the explosive growth of 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, where he scaled the company from $2 million to $106 million in just six years.
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.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ 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.
Resources & Links:🔗 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!
Episode Summary:
Shutting down a business is a complex and often overwhelming process—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we sit down with Dori Yona, Co-Founder & CEO of SimpleClosure, a venture-backed startup using technology to streamline business closures. Dori shares his personal journey as a founder facing the challenges of winding down a company, what he learned, and how those experiences led to building a solution that reduces a months-long process into days or weeks.
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:
- What are the key do’s and don’ts when shutting down a company, and why are they important?
- Can you walk us through the wind-down process step-by-step?
- Who is responsible for each part of the wind-down, from decision-making to execution?
- What is a typical timeline for winding down a business, and what factors affect it?
- What are the costs involved in closing a company, and how can founders manage them efficiently?
- If a company sells its assets, does it still need to formally close, or are there alternatives?
- How can founders ensure employees, investors, and creditors are treated fairly during a wind-down?
- What are the main differences between an asset sale and a stock sale in a business exit?
- Are there any legal or financial implications of asset vs. stock sales that founders should consider?
- Can you share a real-world example of a successful wind-down and what made it effective?
- 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?
Episode Description: In this episode, we sit down with legendary entrepreneur and scientist T.J. Rodgers, the founder of Cypress Semiconductor, investor in clean energy, and advocate of free-market principles. With a career spanning decades in Silicon Valley, Rodgers has been at the forefront of technological innovation, business strategy, and corporate governance. We dive into his experiences building and leading companies, his views on boardroom dynamics, and his insights into the future of entrepreneurship, manufacturing, and clean technology.
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
Episode Overview:
In this episode, we sit down with Gil Feig, co-founder of Merge, to explore the challenges and innovations in API integrations. Gil shares his journey from software engineering to entrepreneurship, the technical hurdles faced while building Merge, and the strategic decisions that drive the company’s success. We also dive into team building, financial strategy, and the future of Merge’s platform.
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.
Episode Summary:Join us for an inspiring conversation with Vanessa Larco, Partner at NEA, one of the world's largest venture capital firms. In this episode, Vanessa shares her career journey from working at leading tech companies like Microsoft, to becoming a prominent VC investor. She dives into her investment philosophy, the importance of strong leadership, leveraging data-driven decisions, and fostering diversity in venture capital.
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.
Key Discussion Points:* 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.
Highlighted Questions:* 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?
About Vanessa Larco: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.
Event Details: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.
Connect with Vanessa Larco:* LinkedIn: Vanessa Larco on Vanessa Larco | LinkedIn * Learn more about NEA: http://www.nea.com
Show Notes for "The Silicon Valley Podcast" – Dave House InterviewGuest: David House, American Engineer and Computer Designer
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:
- Leadership
- Decision Making
- Managing for Results
- Conflict Resolution
- 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:
- 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?
Mentorship:* During those early years, who were some of your mentors, and how did they shape your path?
Management Focus:* 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?
Overspecifying Results:* Can you elaborate on what you mean by overspecifying results?
Decision-Making Process:* You've talked about the importance of socializing the decision-making process. Can you explain what that means and why it's beneficial?
Constructive Confrontation:* You've advocated for a more constructive approach to confrontation in business meetings. Can you share why and suggest alternative strategies for addressing disagreements?
Roles of a CEO:* For aspiring leaders, what do you see as the two most critical roles of a CEO?
Career Reflections:* 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."
Show Notes: Featuring Adam CoffeyAbout Adam CoffeyAdam Coffey is a dynamic CEO, Board Member, best-selling author, and international speaker renowned for driving transformative growth and fostering high-performance cultures. With over 21 years of experience, Adam has built three national service companies for nine private equity sponsors, completing 58 acquisitions with outcomes measured in the billions. His books, "The Private Equity Playbook," "The Exit Strategy Playbook," and "Empire Builder," are #1 Amazon Best Sellers. A former GE executive and US Army veteran, Adam now consults through CEO Advisory Guru.
Topics Covered in This Episode* 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.
Connect with Adam* 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!
Guest: David Hamilton Nichols
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!
From Startup to Exit: Brian Will's Lessons on Building and Scaling Successful Businesses
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.
Guest: Marsha Wulff, Impact investing pioneer with 40 years of experience building corporations, managing investments, and establishing a venture capital firm focused on Africa.
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"
Bio:
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/
Guest Speakers:
- 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:
- What inspired Dario and Tony to transition from corporate careers to founding Savvly?
- How do their corporate experiences influence the way they build and scale Savvly?
- What advice do they have for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those transitioning from corporate roles?
- What are the unique challenges of innovating in the fintech space for retirement solutions?
- 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.
Guests:
- 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/
Show notes Mark Kleyner
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/
The Future of Small Business: AI & Real-Time Solutions Guest: Sidharth Saxena, CEO and Founder of DocytShow NotesIntroduction:
- 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:
- 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.
Building Expertise:* 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.
Real-Time Bookkeeping:* 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.
AI in Small Business Operations:* 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.
Team and Innovation:* 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.
Connecting with Sid:* 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/
In the fast-paced world of tech entrepreneurship, experience is invaluable. Oleg Golynker, a seasoned tech entrepreneur, manager, and investor since the mid-90s, shares his insights garnered from a journey marked by both epic failures and mind-blowing successes.
About Oleg GolynkerWith 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.
Solving Problems, Creating SolutionsAt 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.
Key Insights from Oleg1. 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.
Connect with OlegTo 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 Title: How AI is Disrupting Sales and Marketing with Raj Prasad
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:
- Career Journey: Raj, can you tell our audience a little bit about your career up to this point?
- AI in Marketing Applications: What are some specific applications of AI in marketing that you find most impactful?
- SEO and Content Optimization: Can you discuss the impact of AI on search engine optimization (SEO) and content optimization?
- Consumer Behavior Analysis: How has AI changed the way marketers understand and analyze consumer behavior?
- Revolutionary AI Tools: Can you share examples of AI-powered tools or platforms that have revolutionized marketing strategies?
- Future of Targeted Advertising: How do you see AI shaping the future of targeted advertising and audience segmentation?
- Campaign Performance and ROI: In what ways does AI contribute to improving marketing campaign performance and ROI?
- Social Media Marketing: How can marketers leverage AI to optimize their social media marketing efforts?
- Challenges and Limitations: What challenges or limitations do marketers face when implementing AI in their strategies?
- AI for Small Businesses: How can small businesses or startups with limited resources benefit from AI in their marketing efforts?
- Future Role of Marketers: How do you see AI influencing the role of marketers in the future?
- 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!
Episode Summary:
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:
- Career Background:
- P. Keating gives an overview of his career journey and experiences that have shaped his expertise in supply chain and mobility sectors.
- 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.
- Evolving Mobility:
- Navigating the complexity of mobility startups amidst advancements in autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and other technologies.
- Regulations and Policies:
- The importance of understanding regulations and policies when building or investing in companies within the supply chain and mobility spaces.
- Challenges in the Sector:
- Unique challenges faced by startups and investors in supply chain and mobility compared to other sectors.
- Technology Evolution:
- How technologies like human-less electric cargo planes evolve compared to software MVPs and iterative testing.
- Resilience to Disruptions:
- Assessing the resilience of supply chain startups to disruptions caused by global events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Sustainability Initiatives:
- Evaluating the sustainability practices of companies in the supply chain and mobility industries.
- 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.
- Global Interest:
- Identifying the regions and stakeholders most interested in supply chain and mobility technologies.
- Philosophy on Success:
- P. shares his philosophy on "stacking bills without anyone knowing who you are" and its implications for business success.
- Exit Strategies:
- Discussing the preferred exit strategies for companies in the supply chain and mobility sectors.
- IPO vs. earlier round exits.
- Value to Founders:
- Why founders should be excited to have J.P. and his team on their cap table.
- Success Stories:
- P. shares a compelling story of a company he worked with or one in the supply chain and mobility space.
- 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
LinkedIn Profile: Ms. Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke
Episode SummaryIn 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.
Key Questions and Topics DiscussedIntroductions* 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.
Background and History of NPO* The origin and evolution of the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy & Impact Investing. * The role and significance of the NPO in Nigeria's economic landscape.
Coordination with Public Office* How the NPO collaborates with the Vice President's office to streamline efforts. * The integration of public and private sector initiatives.
Organizational Goals and Strategies* Primary objectives of the NPO and the strategies in place to achieve them. * Key focus areas and intended outcomes.
Pipeline of Companies and Resource Needs* Developing a robust pipeline of companies. * Resources and support required to scale up job creation efforts.
50% Allocation to Women Recipients* Definition and criteria for women recipients (founders, co-founders, advisors). * Long-term goals and impacts of this allocation criterion.
Grants and Requirements* Conditions and potential matching investment requirements tied to grants. * Efficiency in deploying grants to ensure timely job creation.
Sector Focus and Decision Process* Specific sectors targeted for capital deployment. * Rationale behind the selection of these sectors.
Potential for Model Replication* Possibilities of other African countries adopting a similar model. * Expected outcomes and benefits for the broader African continent.
Investor Partnerships* Opportunities for Silicon Valley investors to partner with and invest in the NPO initiative. * Ways to foster collaboration and mutual growth.
Growth and Expansion Strategies* Plans for companies to expand into new markets. * Strategies for growth and international expansion.
Governance and Utilization of Funds* Assurance mechanisms for proper utilization of grant money. * Governance structures tied to financial assistance.
Funding Application Process* Information companies need to provide to secure funding. * Criteria and eligibility requirements for applicants.
Beyond Financial Assistance* Additional support provided to companies beyond funding. * Resources and mentorship available to aid business growth.
Role of Technology and Innovation* Importance of technology and innovation in the NPO's investment strategy. * Future trends and opportunities.
Guest: John Hittler | LinkedIn
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:
- Career History
- John provides an overview of his career path, highlighting key milestones and achievements.
Time Management* As a busy professional with multiple roles, John discusses how he efficiently manages his time and responsibilities.
Overcoming Challenges* John shares notable challenges and setbacks he has faced in his career and the strategies he used to overcome them.
Entrepreneurial Stories* Reflecting on the companies he has started, John recounts some memorable experiences and lessons learned.
Evoking Genius* John explains his motivation for founding Evoking Genius after successfully starting nine other companies.
Methodologies and Frameworks* Insight into the specific methodologies or frameworks John utilizes with his clients to drive success.
Qualities of Successful Leaders* Discussing the key characteristics that differentiate elite leaders from the average person and what makes them successful.
Initial Client Sessions* What a first session with John looks like and how he sets the stage for productive coaching relationships.
Leveraging Strengths and Talents* John's approach to identifying and leveraging unique strengths and talents within an organization.
Finding Balance and Avoiding Burnout* Strategies for supporting leaders in maintaining balance and preventing burnout in high-pressure environments.
Client Success Stories* Anonymous success stories showcasing how John has helped clients achieve their goals.
Continuous Learning* How John stays informed and ensures his insights and strategies remain relevant in the ever-evolving business landscape.
Cultivating Innovation and Creativity* Advice for aspiring leaders or entrepreneurs on fostering innovation and creativity within their teams.
Common Challenges and Misconceptions* Addressing common challenges and misconceptions encountered when working with organizations and how John handles them.
Misconceptions about CEOs* Exploring common misconceptions people have about CEOs and the realities of their roles.
Connect with John Hittler* 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
- Background and Experience
- Brian’s Journey: Brian shares a brief introduction to his background, career path, and how he became a venture capitalist.
Venture Capital Landscape* Evolution of Venture Capital: Brian discusses the evolving landscape of venture capital, including current trends and future outlooks.
Aspiring Venture Capitalists* Starting in VC: Practical advice from Brian for those aspiring to enter the venture capital industry.
Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs)* Investing and Managing SPVs: Insights into Brian’s experience with SPVs, including the benefits and challenges.
Value-Add for VCs* 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.
VC Branding* Importance of VC Brand: Discussion on the future significance of having a venture capital brand on a company's cap table.
Portfolio Management* Tracking Investments: How angel investors typically keep track of their portfolio companies. * Effective Communication: Examples of how companies effectively maintain communication with their investors.
Founders Seeking Capital* Timing and Strategy: Brian’s thoughts on why some founders wait until the last minute to seek capital or consider selling their companies.
Investment Write-Offs* Implications of Write-Offs: The impact of writing off an investment in terms of taxes, returns, and LP reports.
Reporting to LPs* Types of Reports: Insights into the types of reports venture capitalists typically provide to their limited partners.
Newsletters* Advantages of Newsletters: The benefits for both venture capitalists and founders in maintaining a newsletter.
Personal Branding* Marketing Efforts: Brian’s approach to managing his marketing efforts and building his personal brand.
Relocation Insights* 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.
Connecting with Brian* 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/
Sara Zare Bio
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/
In this episode of The Silicon Valley Podcast, we delve into the dynamic world of investment banking with the esteemed Vincent Monteparte, a visionary leader with over 25 years of experience in managing strategic enterprise initiatives across various industries.
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:
- 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?
- How important is it for a founder to plan for an exit?
- How does one think about the valuation of their company?
- What are some warning signs that an investment banker can see that may indicate a deal will not work?
- After the sale is complete, what do you want your client to say about you as an investment banker?
- 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
Ron Whittier Interview Introduction
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…
Martin Tobias: Navigating the Landscape of Investment and Entrepreneurship
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:
- 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.
- Enhanced Connections Between Founders and Investors: We discussed emerging solutions and trends facilitating better connections between founders and investors, essential for fostering successful partnerships.
- 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.
- 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.
Michael J. Firestone, CFA
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?
Karen (Kovaleski) Traversi, SHRM-CP
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.
Tyler Marin, CPA
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?
Show notes for Amman Ahmed.
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
Board Dynamics and Advisory Roles with Louise Broekman
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
Show notes Joe Siencinski 2nd interview https://www.linkedin.com/in/joesiecinski/
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
Ep 217 Silicon Valley and The Middle East with Fouad Alnazawi and Stephanie Richards
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.
Building Your Tribe, Unleashing the Power of a Startup Wolfpack with Michael DevellanoTopic: Navigating the entrepreneurial journey, fostering strong communities, and leveraging the power of collaboration.
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
Show notes for Adam Coffey
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
Paul Epstein, leadership expert, organizational culture guru, and Founder of Purpose Labs. With nearly fifteen years of experience in professional sports management and business coaching, Paul shares his transformative journey and insights with our audience.
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:
Show notes for Jon Staenberg https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonstaenberg/
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.
Shownotes for Emily Ward
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).
Shownotes for Andrew Butt
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/
Show notes for Adam Nash
- 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?
Ian Leisegang
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?
Reaction is a global community and fund invested in solving the toughest global problems.
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/
Drue Freeman is an Independent Board Director at Ideal Power (NASDAQ:IPWR) and is currently serving on the Board of Directors at Sand Hill Angels.
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
Jon Li
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
Shownotes for Karen Traversi Kovaleski,
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
Show notes Ron Gutman
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
Show notes for Gunja Gargeshwari
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/
Zamir Shukho is the Founder and General Partner of the Vibranium.VC venture fund. With 20 years of professional experience, he has a background as a serial entrepreneur having created 10 companies and organizations. He is also an expert in venture capital, management, and corporate innovation. In addition to this, he is a startup mentor and a certified coach of the Stanford I2M program.
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
- VC and Podari.life charity program - https://www.podari.life/vibranium
- VC Softlanding Program - https://vibranium.vc/softlanding
- VC website - https://vibranium.vc/
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/vibraniumvc
- Twitter - https://twitter.com/Vibranium_VC
Show Notes for Drew Sechrist
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/
Shawn Flynn is a seasoned mid-market investment banker and distinguished Podcast Host. With a rich background as a successful business owner in Beijing, China, Shawn returned to Silicon Valley, where he immersed himself in the dynamic startup ecosystem. He has held diverse roles, from Head of Incubation for an AI and blockchain-focused incubator to President of the second oldest Angel group in the Valley. Leveraging his extensive experience across various business stages and sectors, Shawn currently serves as Principal at a premier middle market investment bank, specializing in mergers and acquisitions, growth capital raising, and secondaries.
Shawn holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from UCSD, and his global perspective is enriched by his proficiency in Mandarin and Spanish, acquired during almost 8 years of living abroad. As the host of the acclaimed "The Silicon Valley Podcast," Shawn shares valuable insights and conversations with thought leaders and industry pioneers.
Feel free to connect with Shawn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpflynn/Explore his podcast here: https://link.chtbl.com/TheSiliconValleyPodcast
Show notes for Elliot Holland
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
Guest interviewed in this episode include:
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
Show Notes for Guilliame Moubeche CEO of Lemlist
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
Luke Hohmann
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/
Show notes for Philippe Bouissou, Ph.D
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 (
Todd Sullivan
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
Yash Patel joined Telstra Ventures in 2014 and leads TV’s consumer tech investing efforts, with an emphasis on esports/gaming, social media, ecommerce, web3 and SaaS. Yash has sourced and led TV’s investments in BigCommerce (Nasdaq: BIGC), Snapchat (NYSE: SNAP), Skillz (NYSE: SKLZ), Near (Nasdaq: NIR), Mobile Premier League, Super, Omaze, Sleeper, Team SoloMid (tsm.gg), FitOn, Swish Analytics, OpenGov, Playbook and Singular. He is particularly interested in products that can reach massive scale and exhibit network effects.
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
Show notes David Kaufman
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
Michael DiManno is the CEO and founder of Samuel Hale, 1 of 70 companies in California approved for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) -- The United Broker’s Insurance Agency, Inc. (TUB), Staff Logical (labor management software). A staffing and insurance industry executive with 30 years of experience, his career has encompassed consulting, financing, funding, and leadership positions within several companies from the startup phase all the way through acquisition or sale. Thanks to his wealth of expertise, Michael was also chosen as one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the Sacramento Journal’s 40 under 40.
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)
Show notes for Stephen Lovell
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
Show Notes for Tatyana Mamut
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.
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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
Bio
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
Show notes Adam Coffey
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/
Show Notes Arthur Mrozoski
Successful media entrepreneur and investor with an international track record of building successful technologies, enterprises, and strategic partnerships have resulted in several M&As. His career has been defined by his pioneering new technologies that spearheaded new industries.
He started as a software engineer with Meridian Data, soon acquired by IBM, after which he joined Sony Corporation. At 28, he co-founded Round Book Publishing with colleagues from Sony.
Founded Media Galleries, multimedia publishing company: produced first film using QuickTime 1.0. Designed and co-produced "35 years of Grammy's" award-winning multimedia. Published first Digital Multimedia Magazine PC ROCK with Poland's largest national radio RFM. Published Multimedia Chopin Encyclopedia, with UCSC Professor Anatoly Leikin.
1998 Founded MGE, to post-produce Hollywood films to DVD.
1999 Published NETFLIX first original content making, creating a first national company recognition, with CNN, Wall Street Journal front coverage.
2000 He created a first national campaign for the first Master Card branded gift card—GiftAmerica Card by OneNetwork.
2002 Sold MGE to a company servicing Netflix's postproduction needs (Left Coast Digital)
2003 founded MGE FILM; distributing European Films: NETFLIX, Amazon.
In 2008, co-founded Silicon Hill Ventures to develop break-through ideas into valuable companies with strong exits in the fields of media creation and distribution, revolutionary advertising platforms, big data analytics, and life sciences.
2009, he founded in and became the CEO of Magic Screen, a holographic advertising platform. Clients included Red Bull, Tao Club.
In 2013, Magic Screen was acquired by publicly-traded company Nanotech.
2014 Co-founded NovoSensus, a big-data analytics company, with Phil Sakakihara, Hewlett Packard's first CTO.
2015 Co-founded VPILA. Company dedicated to a tennis or golf ball tracking.
2016 Co-founded DotHot. The company focus mobile proximity advertising platform based on GPS and IoT.
2017 CoFunded Under the Sun/Yachtbook, SAAS platform for management of Yachts and Villas.
2017 CoFunded Looptronic. IoT company that is utilizing a wearables for authentication and transactions.
Advisor for several start-ups, as well as an accomplished inventor with multiple U.S. patent applications
We talk about
Advice on Negotiating the sale of your company?
How Chat GPT is disrupting all of Silicon Valley?
How can a companies mistake end up being a pivotal part in its success?
When is it time to sell your company?
Connect with Arthur Mrozowski
https://www.linkedin.com/in/arthurmrozowski/
siliconhillventures.com
- dvdart
Show Notes Michael Smart
Over 25 years in the information technology and software industry in several executive positions with responsibility for product management, product marketing, development and operations for NASDAQ--traded companies in the internet and software industries.
In these roles I have successfully guided the development and launch of new products in the internet security, service management and mobile data software markets.
The most exciting and rewarding work I do is show marketing and product executives how to change the ground rules and win in the market with their solutions.
As a practitioner in product management, product marketing and product lifecycle management; I work with small and large firms to improve their go-to-market results.
I have delivered value to companies in the following areas:
Product Assessment- identifying the cause of potential revenue and profit leaks for the product. This is followed with recommendations for quick fixes with fast payback and long term strategies.
Product Transformation -defining new opportunities for existing products in adjacent markets through re-packaging and pricing options.
Specialties: Developing and implementing product lifecycle, product management and product marketing best practices in technology companies.
We talk about:
What is a product life cycle and what we should know before we talk about launching a product?
What is a product assessment and where do companies struggle with this?
How has launching a product changed over time in Silicon Valley?
What is it like to run a consulting agency?
And much more
Connect with Michael
https://www.linkedin.com/in/masmart/
msmart@egresssolutions.net
- Twitter Mike_Smart
Show notes for Michael Plesha
Mike is an accomplished executive business leader with over 20 years of experience in global operations, sales & marketing, strategic planning, and value chain solution design. His strong relationship skills, consulting, and leadership abilities, combined with his broad industry experience, allows him to seamlessly connect across organizational landscapes, to partner with corporate leaders and build effective long-term board-level relationships. He is an active member of the Board of Directors for the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG), the Turnaround Management Association (TMA), and the California League of Food Producers. Additionally, Mike serves on the Board of Directors of The Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, one of California's oldest nonprofit organizations serving the blind and those with vision impairment.
As a Consulting Partner with Expense Reduction Analysts (ERA), Mike is a strategic advisor to C-Suite executives focused on driving improved costs, maximizing supplier value, operating margins, and EBITDA. ERA operates on a global basis working in both the middle- and enterprise markets. With a focused approach on business intelligence, analytics, and AI capabilities, Mike and his team of supplier industry subject matter experts provide their clients unique insights on supplier industry behaviors and real time benchmark data to achieve significant financial improvement in both cost structure and service levels.
We cover
Expense and spend management- is this the job of the CFO, the controller, purchasing, who? Does it change as a company grows?
What is Tail Spend and why is it difficult to manage?
How does one go about finding hidden savings opportunities?
How often should the CEO and the CFO look over expenses?
What should or shouldn’t companies outsource?
Connect with Michael
mplesha@expensereduction.com
Website
expensereduction.com
Show Notes Mark McNally
An accomplished and visionary product and marketing executive with broad-based experience scaling companies from startup through multinational establishment. Career includes impressive results as a visionary tech innovator, global business veteran and results oriented operations executive. Led companies from startup through successful IPO. As a senior executive successfully developed and launched visionary new products in multiple industries and managed multi
What are the problems with startups coming out of the big-name accelerator programs?
What is a venture studio and what is its model?
What are the problems with building a company thinking it will be disruptive for 15 years?
In terms of metrics, what does success look like for a Venture Studio?
Connect with Mark
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrkmcnally/
https://nobodystudios.com/
Marco Sermoneta
Ambassador Marco Sermoneta is the Consul General of Israel to the Pacific Northwest, based in San Francisco. A career diplomat since 1993, he will be building partnerships and coalitions of support for Israel with the people and governments of Northern California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana and Alaska. He plans to focus on strengthening relations in the areas of innovation and technology, trade, agriculture, tourism, sustainability and the environment, and culture. He looks forward to working together with the active Jewish communities, businesses, and Israeli entrepreneurs in San Francisco, Seattle and Portland. A native Italian and fluent Spanish speaker, he intends to work closely with the Italian American and Hispanic American communities. He is eager to work with the Americans of Asian descent, including the Japanese and Indian communities, based on his diplomatic experiences.
Marco served as Israel’s Ambassador to Colombia and strengthened the political and trade relations significantly with the first ever visit of an Israeli Prime Minister to the country, and with the ratification of the Free Trade Agreement during his tenure. This set the framework for commerce and economic cooperation which has flourished until today. Throughout Marco’s tenure there was increased cooperation on technology, innovation, development, and defense issues.
As Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica, he was instrumental in strengthening relations in a number of areas including agriculture, development, and defense. Israel was one of the first countries to respond to the devastating earthquake of Haiti in 2010, providing immediate humanitarian assistance and long-term trauma-care knowledge. Additionally, he served as Deputy Ambassador to Japan helping represent Israel as the Indo-Pacific Region became more of a focus for Israeli foreign policy.
He was the Head of the European Multilateral Organizations desk in the European Division of the Foreign Ministry, which included NATO, OSCE and others. He played an important role in the Papal Visit of John Paul II to Israel in 2000. Previously he served as the Political Counselor of the Israeli Mission to the United Nations focusing on social affairs, human rights, economics, and sustainability. He helped Israel gain a more appropriate representation on various UN Committees and staff, and helped many Israeli NGOs obtain UN recognition and accreditation. At the start of his career, he was a Deputy Chief of Mission in both Mumbai and Dublin.
Born in Rome, Marco’s family was active in the Roman Jewish Community, who trace their origins to the Second Temple period 2,000 years ago. He immigrated to Israel as a child on the day before the Yom Kippur War started in 1973 growing up in Lod, a city with various economic and social challenges. For him, being accepted as a Cadet in the Israeli Foreign Ministry, and representing Israel, is a personal and professional dream.
Before joining the Foreign Ministry, he was assistant to the night editor of the Jerusalem Post, wrote articles for the paper, and worked in a bookstore. Besides international diplomacy, Marco has been writing and publishing poetry for the past 20 years. He also translates Italian and English poetry into Hebrew. He received a BA in English Linguistics and International Relations from Hebrew University and served in a field intelligence unit in the IDF. He enjoys Italian cooking and music, and is hoping to expand his vinyl record collection during his time in San Francisco.
We talk about:
How can a Silicon Valley company get in contact with investors from Israel?
How can the Israel consulate help companies here and abroad?
How has the technology that has been developed in Israel spilll over to other countries into other parts of the world or has it?
And much more…
Connect with Marco
https://embassies.gov.il/san-francisco
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marco-sermoneta-28907a18/
Mark McClain
I’ve been an entrepreneur in the identity management market for more than 20 years, cofounding two companies that have driven innovation in the market. SailPoint (NYSE:SAIL), has built its business on the foundational principle that identity is power. We have been in business for more than 15 years, and the company continues to grow with profitability. Our commitment to innovation and consistently high customer satisfaction are among the reasons the biggest, most complex organizations in the world rely on SailPoint to help them improve security while staying agile.
As CEO, I’m passionate about building a corporate culture that brings good people together to accomplish great things. I love giving back to our community and working with up-and-coming entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and expand Austin’s influence in technology. I speak frequently at investor and industry events and write for the SailPoint blog and a variety of industry publications. I have also been recognized as a highest-rated CEO by Glassdoor and by EY as an Entrepreneur of the Year.
Specialties: leadership, organizational development, innovation, culture, business operations, strategy, start-ups
We talk about
From raising Venture Capital, Private equity, to going public… How has the company changed at each of these stages?
How does a board change with each stage of a company?
What are companies missing when they talk about corporate culture?
And much more
Connect with Mark
https://www.linkedin.com/in/markmcclainceo/
Website
https://www.sailpoint.com/
Possible Show notes for Richard Moran
Richard Moran
Richard A. Moran is a General Partner at Tonic Bioventures. He is a noted San Francisco based business leader, workplace pundit, bestselling author, consultant and venture capitalist. He is best known for his series of humorous business books beginning with bestselling, Never Confuse a Memo with Reality that started the genre of "Business Bullet Books."
We talk about:
What tips can you give companies from the side of a Venture Capitalist, on not running out of Money.
What is the meaning of the word “Whatever”?
How can one change a “whatever” business culture?
As a Venture Capitalist, how did you do analysis on companies before investing?
Contact:
Twitter richmoran
Blog richardmoran.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardamoran/
Sean Steele
I build or enable businesses to fulfil their potential impact in the world. I thrive on helping leaders and their teams understand and exceed their own expectations of themselves. I love the process of scaling up businesses and specialise in the $2m-$50m revenue range. I have deep experience in education and services businesses in the APAC region.
Creating value by developing perspective, vision, strategy, product, foundations, operating frameworks, rhythms, talent, culture, alignment and sales and marketing capability is my thing.
I’m blessed to have done this with a range of different hats on (Executive, CEO, Chair, Director, Mentor) and therefore have experienced the thrill of overcoming the inevitable challenges myself, and I love helping others do the same.
More from Sean Steele, all free resources:
- His 8-Steps to Fast-Tracking Growth and Valuation checklist: SeanSteele.com.au/checklist
- His ScaleSmart weekly thought piece on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/scalesmart-7025214107435876352/
- His ScaleUps Podcast: ScaleUpsPodcast.com
- or connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seansteeleprofile/
Regards,
We talk about
How does a buyer look at a strategic Acquisition?
How does one go about getting every dollar they deserve when selling a business?
When does the integration conversation start to occur when buying a company?
Sean’s philosophies on integration
And more…
Show Notes Paul Kelly
Paul Kelly
I love building stuff; businesses, teams, events, partnerships, relationships, and anything with wood.
Dynamic and organized, ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines across time zones.
Results driven - Navigates well through ambiguity and is adaptable to change.
Managed a SF Based brokerage with 20+ agents for over a decade.
Managing Broker of a SF based boutique firm for 5 years, Synesis Advisors , which I co-founded.
Engaged in 100’s of transactions from Main Street to lower middle market ($10MM-$40M~)
Communicates and influences effectively across organizational levels and personalities.
Having been self-sufficient since my youth has fostered my self-starter, highly competitive demeanor today.
I am a convergent thinker and problem solver, often pivoting from team member to head coach to janitor.
Communication is key. I strive for clarity in interactions which allows the highest probability for a successful outcome.
Confident in my abilities while humble enough to know when to listen. Two ears one mouth has been a motto of mine for decades.
I value honesty and relationships and one’s moral compass. I learned long ago that integrity is paramount for a leader’s success. From a football field to a brokerage office, in the absence of integrity there is no defense.
I value ingenuity and proactivity. I have met many remarkably successful people. I found the common denominator in their successes was not timing, intelligence, connections, etc., it was the simple fact that they went and did it.
We talk about
How can one build “Goodwill” over a transaction?
What do you think is “key” to getting a transaction done that people might not think about?
Where do sellers struggle the most when getting companies ready to sell?
What are some of the biggest reasons why a company does not sell?
What trends are happening now with SaaS companies?
And much more
Connect with Paul Kelly
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauljonkelley/
Twitter* pauljonkelley
Shownotes for Maya Acherman PHD
Professor Ackerman is a world-renowned researcher in generative AI and CEO/co-founder of WaveAI. A pioneer in the space, Ackerman has been researching generative AI models for text, music and art since 2014. Dr. Ackerman was an early advocate for human-centered generative AI, bringing awareness to the power of AI to profoundly elevate human creativity. Ackerman has over 50 peer reviewed research publications and her research has been cited in over 1200 publications.
Named “Woman of Influence” by the Silicon Valley Business Journal, interviews with Dr. Ackerman appear on NBC News, New Scientist, NPR, Grammy.com, SiriusXM and international television stations across the globe. Dr. Ackerman is a member of the Steering Committee of the Association on Computational Creativity and has been on the program and reviewing committees of twenty different AI journals and conferences. A sought-after speaker, she appeared on many top stages, including the United Nations, IBM Research, Microsoft and Stanford University.
Dr. Ackerman is the recipient of awards from the Association of Computational Creativity, Office of Naval Research, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and more. She earned her PhD from the University of Waterloo, held postdoctoral fellowships at Caltech and UC San Diego and is on the faculty of the Computer Science and Engineering Department at Santa Clara University.
Personal website: http://www.maya-ackerman.com
We talk about
What is generative Artificial Intelligence?
How are Chat GPT and Open AI changing the world?
Is Chat GPT the Google search killer such as what is being mentioned in the new?
What are the next steps for this technology?
And much more…
Connect with Maya Acherman
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackerma/
Websites* wave-ai.net (Company) * maya-ackerman.com (Personal)
Emailackermanmaya@gmail.com
Arun Bio
We founded MBM Capital with one mission: create a new, profitable pathway for founders whose companies are orphaned by traditional VC.
Arun has over 20 years of investment, operations and turnaround experience, including at firms such as Shinsei Bank (early employee at JC Flowers / Rippledwood led turnaround), StoneCastle, Klarna and LedgerX. He has invested over $500mm of capital during his career in speciality finance companies, community banks, fintech and other special situations.
We talk about
How does one come up with their fund’s thesis?
What type of numbers in general terms do Private Equity groups like to see?
How does interest rates change your decisions when making an offer on a company?
How do you go about thinking about structuring a deal, both price and terms, when you make an offer on a company?
How do you analyze different value drivers of a company?
And much more
Connect with Arun
https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunmittal/
arun.mittal@gmail.com
917-804-6533
https://www.mbmcapital.co/
Daran Herrman CEO at Goboto | Host of Establishing your Empire with 10+ years of experience in managing online businesses, including managing strategy development, global eCommerce solutions, online marketing & multi-channel retail partnerships for business & consumer market sectors. (2) Daran Herrman | LinkedIn
Sam Wong https://www.linkedin.com/in/startupsam/
Sam is a CEO coach, fractional CEO/CTO/CFO, a Silicon Valley advisor and the author of 21 Secrets of Successful Startups, a book about world-class execution for startups. Sam also provides online training for entrepreneurs at FundableStartups.com. As a serial entrepreneur, he has been CEO, CTO, or VP Engineering / TechOps for five companies, driving multiple acquisitions. As a hands-on “roll up the sleeves” startup advisor, Sam draws from his 30+
Roger King https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogermking/
CEO of Chiefpeople20 years experience in recruiting at both the executive level and the individual contributor level. Interested in companies
Brian Sparkes https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian%F0%9F%92%A5-sparkes-9967a8a0/
Experienced consultant with a demonstrated history of working in higher education, and startup culture. Experienced in high stakes communication, presentation skills, strengthening emotional intelligence in leadership and teams, business development, building business culture, community and social capital.
Jason https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonnyeh/
A Bay Area local & Entrepreneur Evangelist who believes in making a difference, utilizing my “Why” and thinking outside of the box to create phenomenal results. I have held leadership roles in marketing, sales, business development, project management, training, and consultation in industries/sectors such as Fintech, Healthcare, Medical IOT, Travel & Hospitality. I also serve as the Membership and Partnership Director with the BayAngels, a leading angel investor organization in the Bay Area, helping aspiring professionals and entrepreneurs to be top players in Silicon Valley and other markets, such as China and India. Self-motivated and stellar leader describe my personality. In my leisure time, I love traveling, networking, and volunteering in various communities.
We talk about:
Bad investments in Silicon Valley.
Key takeaways from the Silicon Valley ecosystem.
What are the benefits of being with an Angel group.
And much more
Show notes for panel 3 Your Exit Process. The Business Capital & Exit Strategy Summit
Jerome Fogel https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeromefogel/
Jerome Fogel is the co-founder of Fogel & Potamianos LLP. He is known as a dealmaker and innovator in the legal community. He represents successful entrepreneurs, small and lower middle market companies, and high-profile sports and entertainment leaders. He also serves as the go-to offsite general counsel for a number of organizations. He has participated in over 100 corporate, non-profit, and entertainment transactions including company formations, mergers & acquisitions, equity financing, high-profile partnerships, talent agreements, digital music distribution, television distribution, publishing, licensing, and commercial transactions.
Shawn Flynn mid-market investment banker and Podcast Host.
Shawn started his career as a business owner, founding, and growing a successful company in Beijing China before returning to the US to work with companies ranging from fast growing Silicon Valley startups to established overseas public companies. He brings his international experience working with all stages and sectors of businesses to his role as Principal at a premier middle market investment bank with expertise in mergers and acquisitions, raising growth capital, and secondaries.
Shawn holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from UCSD and speaks Mandarin and Spanish (lived abroad for almost 8 years) and he is the host of the award-winning Podcast "The Silicon Valley Podcast"
You can connect with Shawn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpflynn/
Podcast https://link.chtbl.com/TheSiliconValleyPodcast
Hall Matin https://www.linkedin.com/in/halltmartin/
Through TEN Capital, I help #startup and growth companies everywhere raise #funding from #angels, family offices, venture capital and high net worth individuals.Through the Texas Entrepreneur Networks I established a funding program to match entrepreneurs with investors I also run the Wilco Funding Portal which has raised over $3M for companies based in Williamson County.Through the Texas Open Angel Network I educate angel investors on how to make investments into startups and growing companies. As part of TOAN, I host the Investor Connect podcast series in which I interview venture capital, angel, and family offices investors on how they invest in startups and growth companies. I assist in the formation and launch of startup investment groups, mentorship programs and accelerator programs which includes the First Look Forum, Idea to IP at UT, Incubation Station(SKU), AccelerateNFC, and others. I formed the TEN Advisory program consisting of highly capable professionals to provide business services to startup and growth companies.
How does one do due diligence on the buyer?
When should a company bring in an investment banker to help them sell their company?
What is the process to sell your business?
How to increase the odds of a deal closing.
Who should be on your team when selling a company?
Shownotes for Austin Panel 2
Sam Wong https://www.linkedin.com/in/startupsam/
Sam is a CEO coach, fractional CEO/CTO/CFO, a Silicon Valley advisor and the author of 21 Secrets of Successful Startups, a book about world-class execution for startups. Sam also provides online training for entrepreneurs at FundableStartups.com. As a serial entrepreneur, he has been CEO, CTO, or VP Engineering / TechOps for five companies, driving multiple acquisitions. As a hands-on “roll up the sleeves” startup advisor, Sam draws from his 30+
Jerome Fogel https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeromefogel/
Jerome Fogel is the co-founder of Fogel & Potamianos LLP. He is known as a dealmaker and innovator in the legal community. He represents successful entrepreneurs, small and lower middle market companies, and high-profile sports and entertainment leaders. He also serves as the go-to offsite general counsel for a number of organizations. He has participated in over 100 corporate, non-profit, and entertainment transactions including company formations, mergers & acquisitions, equity financing, high-profile partnerships, talent agreements, digital music distribution, television distribution, publishing, licensing, and commercial transactions.
Daran Herrman https://www.linkedin.com/in/daranherrman/
10+ years of experience in managing online businesses, including managing strategy development, global eCommerce solutions, online marketing & multi-channel retail partnerships for business & consumer market sectors.
A winning financial and visual track record in online and omni-channel marketing with multi-channel campaigns across
We talk about
What are the milestones investors will want to see at each stage of your company’s development?
How do you set aside equity for the founding team members?
How do you built your advisory board?
How quickly should your company grow?
And much more…
Brian Will is a serial entrepreneur who has created or co-created six very successful companies in four different industries over the last thirty-five years. His first foray into owning his own business was a 10-year stint in the landscaping industry that he started when he was twenty years old. This was followed by three online internet companies during the dot.com boom of the late nineties and early 2000s.
The first was an online health insurance website and call center that was eventually sold to a venture capital company in Silicon Valley and today is one of the largest online Medicare insurance platforms in the US.
The second was an online “lead generation” company in the subprime credit space that was sold to a private equity firm out of Chicago.
]We talk about
Why people should not listen to Silicon Valley Billionaire experts?
What skill set would be best to learn early on when starting a business?
Why do so many businesses fail?
When is it time to leave a company and take a break or do something new?
And much more…
Connect with Brian Will
Brian Will – The Author of The Dropout: Multi-Millionaire (brianwillmedia.com)
(14) Brian Will | LinkedIn
brian@brianwillmedia.com
Raising Capital for Your Startup
When is the right time to go out and raise capital?
What are some of the biggest mistakes founders make?
What tips and tricks are there to increase your chances?
Moderator
Wen Zhang
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wenzhangdukemba/
Panelist
Shawn Flynn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpflynn/
Sam Wong
https://www.linkedin.com/in/startupsam/
Roger King
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogermking/
John Thrasher
John Thrasher, Experience As A Service ™ EAAS ™, A seasoned senior management professional with over 25 years of executive management experience. Proven ability to tackle new challenges, critically assess situations, think strategically, implement tactically and execute consistently. A highly effective leader who can assemble, manage and nurture world class management teams. Proficient at: Sales enhancement, Profit and Process Improvement. Experienced at developing strategy, KPI's (Key Performance Indicators) managing cross functional teams to create, maintain and grow a Company's sustainable competitive advantage.
We talk about
How do you set KPI’s for the companies?
What normally takes a company from good to great?
When working with a client, how do you measure success?
What is strategic planning?
How does one go about preparing a company to sell?
And much more…
Connect with John Thrasher
(626)824-5219.
(3) John Thrasher | LinkedIn
jthrasher@sprintmail.com
Website https://www.johnthrasherconsulting.com/
Mike Trigg
Experienced Silicon Valley executive and entrepreneur. Deep domain expertise in marketing, sales, customer service, business development and revenue-generating functions. Aspiring fiction author. UC-Berkeley MBA.
We talk about
What were some of the highs and lows of Silicon Valley?
How did the 1996 communication decency act section 230 change the world?
What is a venture fundable company?
How is everyone in a Venture Capital deal incentive?
Bit Flip the latest Novel by Mike Trigg,
And much more.
Connect with Mike Trigg
https://www.linkedin.com/in/triggmike/
mtrigg254@gmail.com
Websites* miketrigg.com (Personal) * miketrigg.com/blog (Blog)
Moaz Hamid
Mission-driven technologist, and strategist. Solving for the future of jobs, accessibility, and medicine, as well as the role of robotics and artificial intelligence. Previously a general manager and partner with Google, Microsoft, HTC, Dangaard (Nordic Capital) and Palm.
Currently mvmt ventures (accessible first venture studio & fund). Advisor, Simplifyber, and EnlitenAI. Mentor/ advisor for early stage founders, Yellow by Snap Inc. (accelerator), Fast Track by First Round Capital, leAD Sports & Health Tech, Founder Institute, and mentor/chair-advisory board, Startup Boost LA (pre-accelerator). Advisor, SoftBank (Robotics). And a member/robotics, Consumer Technology Association (CTA), and Martin Luther King Jr. Community Healthcare Foundation (MLK-CHF) dream council.
Previously, served as an advisor and executive partner for Kasparov Chess Foundation, Samsung Mobile, Sony Ericsson Xperia, Brightpoint, Emirates, HP, as well as leading investment and strategy on Skype, BullGuard, Sonim, Neo, RemeAi, Sygic, and SouthWing, as well as advising numerous other leading consumer technology, telecom, startup, financial, software, and hardware companies.
Areas of expertise; business strategy, roadmap & product strategy, go-to-market & marketing strategy, product design & management, brand building & strategy, due diligence, and technical expertise in systems analysis & design. Speaking engagement; entrepreneurial journey, hiring and building a team, global market, technology, robotics, ai, culture and leadership...
We talk about
The venture studio model
What is Disability tech?
Organizing and Running a corporate accelerator program
Strategies in raising a fund
And much more
Connect with Moaz Hamid
https://twitter.com/moaz
https://angel.co/moaz
Shownotes for Luba Lesiva
Luba Lesiva
I lead palumni.vc - the Palantir alumni syndicate and fund. Come join us at https://palumni.vc.
I also help tech companies get out of the weeds of fundraising and investor management, and back to building great products, via my work at L4C.
We talk about
Syndicate vs. Fund what are the benefits and negative for each as an investor?
How can a syndicate be used for a VC fund to screen deals?
What are the steps to take a fund from zero to 1?
How does one tap into an existing network?
What’s the Cold start problem?
Connect with Luba Lesiva
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lubalesiva/
https://palumni.vc
luba@l4cadvisory.com
Andrew Berman
My inspiration is to apply new technology to build new products that can touch millions of people in ways that were impossible before.
-
Founder of Nanit, the first camera to track human behavior (the leading baby monitor)
-
Experienced investor from seed to LBO stages, Silicon Valley, NY and other markets
-
Active and experienced angel investor (SaaS, Security, Healthcare, Consumer and CV/AI)
If you're pinging me cold and you want a meeting, you need to be a annual Vowel business plan customer
We talk about
How different is the role of a CEO from a COO?
How important is timing to the success of a company?
Why is a hardware company so hard?
Why is it about taking a company from zero to one that you enjoy?
How does one know when it’s time to move on from one company to another?
Connect with Andrew Berman
(4) Andrew Berman | LinkedIn
Promo Code for three months free: siliconvalley
Shownotes for Aaron McDaniel and Klaus Wehage...Chief Executive Officer
Global Class is a #2 Walll Street Journal BestSeller
Global Class is a Silicon Valley-based consulting firm that works with companies expanding globally to implement best practices of the most successful global scale businesses. As we emerge from the COVID-19 Pandemic, companies have the opportunity to revisit their operation models and look to international markets for both target customers and talent - once that decision is made, the question become HOW.
The Global Class team (the same team that founded 10X Innovation Lab, a global accelerator located in Silicon Valley) has worked with over 2,500 corporate executives and more than 1,700 entrepreneurs across 5 continents. We serve as trusted advisors for market-leading global corporations, fast-growing companies and multi-billion dollar government agencies through delivering virtual, home country-based, and Silicon Valley-based programs with the aim of helping these businesses grow globally.
Through previous partnerships, the Global Class team has been involved in several company expansion and soft-landing programs for government agencies in Asia and LATAM. In fact, it’s our core expertise and we have successfully developed frameworks that provide training, mentorship, and interconnectivity to client organizations.
We talk about
What is a “company-market fit”?
What research should be done before expanding into a new market?
How important is localizing processes when a company enters a new market?
When a company expands globally how does it values expand into markets with it?
Connect with for Aaron McDaniel and Klaus Wehage...
Aaron McDaniel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrbiz/
https://www.globalclassbook.com/
Klaus Wehage
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr10x/
Shownotes for Tony Quingtong
Chief Executive Officer
Securieon Group is a hybrid of management and acquisition advisory for low mid-market privately held companies who need an outside looking in review of their company’s growth strategy. Founders and executives may be at a pivotal point of deciding how best to efficiently scale for additional revenue, capital, investors or M&A.
As the global internet economy evolves, market trends change as does consumer buying habits. Unrecognized, a domino effect occurs which can derail the best intentions of founders who built their organizations on gut reaction, hard work and timing.
Securieon provides extensive financial and market analysis to validate founder initiatives, identify systemic management and operational issues preventing the achievement of higher performance, while creating and implementing innovative strategies to mitigate risks for all stakeholders. Executed properly, a founder attains the leverage required to secure growth capital, improve profitability and eventually exit at a higher valuation.
.
We talk about
When is a company past the point of saving?
When should a company bring in outside consultants?
What are some of the first things one analyzes in a company to make an assessment?
When looking for a turnaround expert what questions should someone ask the person or team they are interviewing?
Connect with Tony Quingtong
(4) Tony Quintong Jr | LinkedIn
tony@securieon.com
securieongroup.com
- TonySecurieon
Swati Chaturvedi
Co-Founder and CEO
Swati has been a management consultant, an investment professional and is now an entrepreneur. Prior to starting Propel(x), Swati was an investment professional at Exigen Capital, where she worked on IT Telecom, Travel, and BPO deals. Before that, she was a management consultant working across a variety of industries. Swati is the co-founder of the MIT Alumni Angel Investors group. She founded and led the group 2013 – 2015 and continues to be on the screening committee. She has an MBA from the Sloan School of Management, an M.S. from MIT, an M.S. from UC Berkeley, and a Bachelor’s degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee. Outside of work, Swati loves to spend time with family, watch movies and read.
We talk about
What is a schedule K-1 for SPVs?
What are some terms or some vocabulary that people seem confused about when looking at early-stage and syndicates?
What about angel groups and Venture Capitalists? How do they use, and work with syndicates?
In general, have you seen any changes in the Silicon Valley Investment landscape that occurred over the pandemic?
How should a company line up milestones with their funding strategy?
Connect with Swati Chaturvedi
Linkedin (1) Swati Chaturvedi | LinkedIn
- Twitter Swati_Propelx
Website https://www.propelx.com
Company Linkedin (1) Propel(x): About | LinkedIn
Show Notes Gavin Reardon
Gavin is a founder, investor and entrepreneur specialist. Before founding Kingson, Gavin provided financial leadership to a fintech that grew revenues to more than USD 50 million before being acquired. Gavin understands the nuances and challenges that face entrepreneurs and how the right investment can unlock accelerated growth. In Kingson, Gavin provides strategic leadership to the development of the Kingson funds and portfolio construction of the underlying businesses. He focuses on capital raising and deal making and loves the people aspect of seeing strategy and execution combined into operational excellence.
As a VC, Gavin focuses on mobile, data and IoT across financial, insurance and health tech investing in emerging startups that have both reach and scale to solve real-world problems.
We talk about
What are some of the biggest surprises for the startup founders when they arrive in Silicon Valley from Africa?
What is the current VC landscape in South Africa?
What is the background of many of the Investors in Africa?
What areas of Tech are African companies excelling in?
What is the biggest misconception about the African startup ecosystem?
Connect with Gavin Reardon
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavreardon/
gavin@kingsoncapital.com
https://kingsoncapital.com/
Gav Reardon (@GavReardon) / Twitter
Show Notes John Baird
John is Founder of Velocity Coaching and coauthor (with Edward Sullivan) of the recently published book, Leading with Heart (Harper Collins).
John is considered to be one of the premier executive coaches in Silicon Valley, having coached CEOs and Founders for over 25 years. John built his career working with the top leaders at companies ranging from early stage start-ups to Fortune 500 firms like Apple and Nike. His first company ExecutivEdge (with Michele Bolton) in many ways set the standard for executive coaching in Silicon Valley over 20 years ago. He considers his 25 years of coaching work at Apple, from their fast growth period to the present, to be among his most significant achievements.
John’s passion for bringing strong leadership and culture building skills to early stage ventures resulted in the founding of the Velocity Group in 2015 (with Ben Tauber). John is currently the Senior Partner and Board Chair at Velocity. He and Managing Partner Edward Sullivan have positioned Velocity as the “go to” coaching firm for early stage companies beginning to scale. They have worked with companies at various stages of growth including Marketo, Krux, AirTable, Clover Health, CultureAmp, Doordash, Grail, MasterClass, Remitly, and many others. Most recently, John serves as a Fellow at Sapphire Ventures.
John brings a strong business perspective to his work, helping leaders leverage their natural talents and expand their skill sets to the next level. John is passionate about innovation and change and helps leaders scale and transform their teams and organizations while building cultures of inclusion and diversity. CEOs have found his advice, counsel and practical tools critical to scaling their companies and avoiding many of the pitfalls along the way.
John holds a PhD in Organizational Communication and Leadership from Purdue University. He spent 17 years on the faculty at San Jose State University in the College of Business and was named Outstanding Professor of the entire University during his time there.
We talk about
What questions should someone ask when looking for an executive coach?
Heart led companies’ vs fear led companies?
Is it different coaching Fortune 500 CEOs vs CEO from Early startups?
What do you need to see or hear to be able to say someone is a leader?
Connect with John Baird
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbaird2191/
http://www.velocitycoaching.com
Leading with Heart (leadingwithheartbook.com)
Show Notes Christopher Nguyen
CEO and Co-Founder of Aitomatic
Hacker, Professor, Builder/Founder w/ successful exits, Leader, Knowledge-First ML Creator @h1st_ai, ex-GoogleApps, http://bit.ly/scholar-ctn
‣ Strategic executive leadership [Google, Panasonic]
‣ CEO/CTO/VP Eng, successful startup+corp experience [Agenda-Asia, Arimo, Aitomatic]
‣ Hands-on software engineering management - built & led teams of '00s
‣ Machine Learning/AI, Extreme Internet-scale, highly available, low-latency service architectures
‣ Quantitative finance, applied statistics
We talk about
What’s it like to successful start and exit several companies?
What is a Knowledge-First App Engine?
How do you train a cyber-security system against something that has not happened yet?
What is open-source project Human-First AI.
What are some of the top strategic technology trends you are seeing now and believe will be there in 2023 and 2024?
Connect with Christopher Nguyen
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ctnguyen/
https://www.aitomatic.com/
ctn@alumni.stanford.org
Kevin Gsell is the Managing Director, Company Solutions for Nasdaq Private Market,
NPM is leading the way by bringing private companies, banks and brokers, stakeholders, and investors together to transact in one marketplace.
How have the private markets changed over the years?
What is the history of the Nasdaq private market?
How important is it for liquidity, or a way for people to sell their shares, for these companies that stay private for so long? For employee, investors?
How are people for lack of a better word getting “screwed” on prices for shares of privately traded companies?
Connect with Kevin Gsell
(5) Kevin Gsell | LinkedIn
Kevin.gsell@npm.com
Trade Private Company Stock | Nasdaq Private Market
Show Notes Michael Brooks
Life is a freelance paradise. How do I know? Thanks to my company's $150 million in freelance payouts.
𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐈 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐫𝐮𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐎𝐧-𝐒𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤
As the CEO and Founder of GoLance, I have an insider's view of the POWER of the "gig-economy," and how lucrative and benefit packed it truly is to work remotely.
For all parties involved!
I've created one of the world's largest freelance platforms, where high-quality global talent is able to connect with, and work for, incredible companies all over the world.
We talk about
What is the future of outsourcing?
How does risk impact one’s decision making?
What's it like to run a company from Puerto Rico?
How to stand up to a larger company that tries to bully your startup?
How to use Quora and Podcast for all your marketing
And much more
Connect with Michael Brooks
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelabrooks/
Company goLance.com
Twitter MichaelBrooksPR
Show Notes Mike Evans
Mike Evans
I’m building a new company, Fixer. We’re a “right now” handyman service. Using our website, anyone in Chicago can book a fixer in minutes for whatever time is convenient for them. Our fixers are full time employees with benefits, as our company is committed to creating a career path alternative to the “gig” economy.
Before Fixer, I went to MIT where I graduated with a pile of degrees and an equally impressive pile of debt. After that adventure, I co-founded GrubHub because I was frustrated with futilely searching for delivery restaurants and grumbling through inaccurate orders. I wrote version one of GrubHub.com in 2004 then armed with a “Sales for Dummies” book, I bootstrapped the business for two years. From there, I lead GrubHub through 5 financing rounds, a couple of acquisitions, a merger, and ultimately an IPO. Phew!
Sign up to preorder my memoir, Hangry, at mikeevans.com.
We talk about
How is riding a bike cross country like building a company?
How long should a Founder be out there selling a product?
What are the terms on a term sheet that founders should be aware of?
What is the significance of a website that makes 1 dollar vs zero dollars?
How does one go through life content or discontent?
Connect with Mike Evans
https://www.linkedin.com/in/authormikeevans/
m_evans
mikeevans.co
Show Notes Rory Murphy
Rory Murphy is the Vice President of Government Affairs at the US-China Business Council and is based out of Washington DC.
Before joining USCBC, Murphy worked as an attorney at Squire Patton Boggs LLP. He previously worked in the policy office of the Export-Import Bank of the United States and as a professional staff member on the trade staff of the Senate Finance Committee under former Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT). Murphy received an undergraduate degree from Seton Hall University and a law degree from the Catholic University of America. He is a native of Great Falls, Montana..
We talk about
Tech companies in Silicon Valley and decisions around CFIUS.
Outbound or reverse CFIUS, what is that?
Where is capital flowing? It is staying in Mainland China, flowing to Hong Kong, or is it going to other countries like Singapore?
Publicly traded Chinese companies being delisted
Connect with Rory Murphy
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rory-murphy-80047122/
rory.murphy@gmail.com
https://www.uschina.org/
Jim Toth, Managing Partner at Riverside Acceleration Capital
I have been investing in enterprise software companies since 2006, both as an individual and as an institutional investor. I am passionate about software and entrepreneurship and strive every day to be helpful as an investor and partner for growth.
We talk about
Why should companies think of raising debt when taking outside capital vs equity?
What should one know about Private Equity?
Where is the Private Equity world moving towards in the next 5 years?
What type of operation partners can a PE group bring to one of their investments?
Connect with Jim Toth
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimtoth/
RAC | Designed for Growth (riverside.ac)
Show Notes Jotham Stein
Jotham S. Stein is the principal of the Law Offices of Jotham S. Stein P.C. (www.jotham.com). Mr. Stein has more than twenty-five years of experience representing entrepreneurs, C-Suite executives, board members, venture capitalists, private equity principals, investment bankers as well as employees of companies of all types and sizes. Mr. Stein has negotiated numerous employment agreements, separation agreements, M & A agreements, change in control agreements, stock option agreements, restricted stock agreements, management carve out agreements, non-compete agreements, and much more.
Mr. Stein is also a litigator. He has represented individuals and corporate clients in state and federal courts and in multidistrict litigation, before state and federal agencies, and in arbitration, including before JAMS, the American Arbitration Association and FINRA. Mr. Stein has also served as part-time General Counsel of a high-technology Silicon Valley company.
Mr. Stein is a graduate of Stanford Law School and Princeton University. He is admitted to practice in California, Illinois, New York, Colorado and the District of Columbia as well as the United States Supreme Court, United States Courts of Appeals for the Seventh, Ninth and District of Columbia Circuits and several United States District Courts. He is also a member of multiple bar associations, including the American Bar Association.
Mr. Stein’s new book, Negotiate Like a CEO, is an engaging look at how top entrepreneurs and executives protect themselves and how you can too.
Mr. Stein is also the author of the professional guide for attorneys: Executive Employment Law: Protecting Executives, Entrepreneurs and Employees (first published by Oxford University Press, and now its ninth edition, published by Mathew Bender/LexisNexis).
We talk about
What is better, to get a two-page offer letter or a 50-page offer letter and why?
Should negotiations be done face-to-face or with the new world, is zoom, ok?
What are the areas of an employment contract that can be negotiated?
What are single action and double action triggers in a contract?
Connect with Jothem Stein
(3) Jotham S. Stein | LinkedInjothamstein@jotham.com
joe@totalexpertinc.com
jotham.com
Negotiate Like a CEO – Negotiate Like a CEO, What Every CEO, Entrepreneur, Attorney Should Read! (negotiatelikeaceobook.com)
Show Notes Joe Welu
Fiercely committed to building Total Expert into a world class technology company through incredible people and a relentless focus on innovation and getting better every single day.
I have dedicated my life to staying ahead of trends and creating incredible value for our customers as CEO of Total Expert.
Areas of Expertise:
-Digital transformation in financial services -SaaS/Fintech -Sales and Marketing leadership and strategy -Customer Loyalty -Real Estate and Mortgage Lending
We talk about
How did you land your first major customer?
Why is it important to define what is “customer success”? What questions should be asked?
How many customers does one need to have to know they have found product market fit for what they are making?
How long was your company around before you felt that a distinct business culture had been formed?
How can a company go about utilizing their customers data?
And much more
Connect with Joe Welu
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-welu-4056726/
joe@totalexpertinc.com
- TotalExpertInc
Show Notes Mani Mahadevan
Mani is the founder and CEO of Valur which takes the tax optimization and asset protection tools of the ultra-wealthy and makes them accessible to everyone. The United States has the most complex tax system in the world. That complexity hurts most Americans and helps only the few who can afford to hire an army of tax professionals to exploit it. At Valur, they believe that the tax planning tools necessary to grow wealth more efficiently should be available to more than the top 0.01%. To make that happen, we use technology to simplify and streamline those solutions and to make them affordable to all.
We talk about
What are the main types of strategies right now for tax mitigation and what are the pros and cons of each?
How does one plan differently for realized and unrealized gains?
What advantage for tax mitigation does the top .1% have that the rest of us do not?
What are the options or differences for picking a strategy if it is before a transaction is done vs if it is done after?
And much more
Connect with Mani
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mani-mahadevan/
mani@valur.io
Show Notes Juan Escobar
Head of Intelligence Solutions Diffbot
Diffbot is a world-class group of AI engineers building a universal database of structured information, to provide knowledge as a service to all intelligent applications. Whether you are building an app that uses web content, an enterprise business application, or a smart robotic assistant, we've got you covered
We talk about
How do most people do data research today? How can one ensure quality of data? How quickly could a new data set disrupt a business, or a market? How does one create a data driven culture? How does a company know that they are analyzing the wrong data?
And much more
Connect with Juan https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetjuan/
It has been an incredible journey. 150 Episodes!!!! We look back at the last 50 and discuss some of the highlights and key topics that were discussed in these amazing interviews. About the Speaker:
Shawn Flynn started as a business owner, founding, and growing a successful company in Beijing China before returning to the US to work with companies ranging from fast growing Silicon Valley startups to established overseas public companies. He brings his international experience working with all stages and sectors of businesses to his role as Principal at a premier middle market investment bank with expertise in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, financial restructuring, and valuation.
Shawn holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from UCSD and speaks Mandarin and Spanish (lived abroad for almost 8 years) and he is the host of the award-winning Podcast "The Silicon Valley Podcast"
You can connect with Shawn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpflynn/
Podcast https://link.chtbl.com/TheSiliconValleyPodcast
Show Notes George Parrish
George Parrish who is the Head of the Deal Screening Committee at the Angel Group Bay Angels. He is also the Executive Director of Entrepreneur Lab LLC, Headquartered 90 minutes East of SF/Silicon Valley in the Central San Joaquin Valley with a branch launched in Tracy California. Entrepreneur Lab is located and supported by the City of Stockton, the City of Tracy, WorkVine209, the San Joaquin County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the Central Valley Asian Chamber of Commerce.
We talk about
How have companies’ pitches changed over time?
What is the most common mistake startups miss with their pitch?
What surprises international delegations the most when they come to Silicon Valley?
How does a background in sales, help when analyzing a company?
And much more
Connect with
george.parrish.sales@gmail.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeparrishconsultantsgp/overlay/contact-info/
Ep 148 Building Communities with Nicholas Adams
Nicholas E. Adams is a national award-winning publicist, strategist, and advisor. He has served as president and ceo of NINICO Communications® since 2011 and champions the motto Power of Partnership®. For more than a decade, the firm has created campaigns, developed messaging, and served as publicist to some of California’s most storied brands and business leaders.
Mr. Adams is a member of the Public Relations Society of America and board member of the San Jose Chamber of Commerce and Symphony San Jose. He is an active member of the Silicon Valley Capital Club, Sovereign Order of the Knights of St. John, and Rotary Club of San Jose – the region’s oldest service organization. In 2009, he took the oath of office and was appointed to the San Jose Arts Commission, where he served as cultural ambassador on behalf of Northern California’s largest city for eight years. In 2019, the Silicon Valley Business Journal named Mr. Adams among the 40 most influential people in the region under the age of 40. Mr. Adams has been featured as an industry thought leader in stories by NBC, ABC, The Mercury News, Crunchbase News, VentureBeat, PR Week and the US Chamber of Commerce.
Under Mr. Adams’ leadership, both the Silicon Valley and Los Angeles Business Journals have named NINICO Communications® among the top public relations agencies throughout the regions. Hailed a Power Player by Silicon Valley Magazine in 2021, Mr. Adams has been recognized for his professional accomplishments and stewardship of the PR and Ad industry and wider community by the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts, Association of Marketing Communication Professionals and Public Relations Society of America.
In 2022, Mr. Adams cofounded Voyage Capital, a Silicon Valley-based venture capital firm which invests in diverse entrepreneurs and technical innovators in the FinTech and GreenTech spaces.
We talk about
what are the rules of doing business?
What is really a company’s brand, is it a logo or name or more?
To start a business, a team is so important. How do you know you have the right people on board?
What is the red-carpet treatment for PR
And much more
Connect with Nicholas Adams
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholaseadams/
NINICO Communications
na@ninico.com
Ivan Linn is a Taiwanese-American entrepreneur and pianist. He is known for his work in the music production of video games in the Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts series. He is also the music director and chief conductor of the Assassin's Creed Symphony World Tour. Linn is a production executive of Goldstones Studios and the CEO and founder of web3 music platform Wavv. Linn is a member of the National Arts and Sciences Recording Academy and ASCAP.
We talk about
How is pitching a startup different or the same as pitching an idea in Hollywood?
Does being a childhood star prepare you for a life as an entrepreneur?
How do you calculate risk and reward?
How has NFTs changed the artist community?
And much more
Connect with Ivan Linn
(6) Ivan Linn | LinkedIn
Wavv - web3 Music Platform & Services
Show Notes Elizabeth Xu
Dr. Elizabeth Xu is a passionate global transformative leader and public company board member. She is a C-level executive with 20+ years of experience & a track record of technology, product and business strategy/execution & customer satisfaction success.
She is the CEO and co-founder of A2C Leadership Group, an interactive online education and coaching platform. A2C helps companies to develop their top talent, elevates their thinking into a creative win-win mindset, and instills best practices for their daily execution. A2C helps employees build 4-level of innovative win-win solutions for the customers, companies, teams, and shareholders.
Her expertise includes formulating global digital transformation strategies in Retail, Food, Education, Finacial Service, and IT Industries, and accelerating innovation through the applications of Cloud, AI, IoT & cybersecurity, and creating new digital business models.
She has in-depth software development experience in creating large-scale, mission-critical mobile, SaaS, multi/hybrid clouds, billion-dollar revenue software products. She drove Product Marketing, Product Management, Engineering, Customer Training, Customer Support, Professional Services, and IT organizations in public companies, she also built deep partnerships with customers, successfully met revenue/profit targets
She served as the Group CTO at CP Group, a $65 Billion Revenue International Conglamorate, CTO at BMC Software, Head of global Engineering, Product Management, Professional Services, IT and Customer Engagement a few public companies.
A Stanford University lecturer, she taught big data, global operation, and leadership classes, authored a textbook and developed course material. She frequently speaks at industry conferences/events.
Dr. Xu was the Top 50 US Diversity Leader in 2020, 2017 WITI Hall of Fame winner, 2013 Women of Influence of Silicon Valley, and received 10+ other awards such as Female Technologist of the year, Female Executive of the Year, Coach of the Year.
Dr. Xu is an investor and advisor for companies in Enterprise Software, Retail, Telecom, Financial Service, Food, Toy, Robotics, Nanotechnology, Big Data, Analytics, ML, Online Education, Healthcare & Software-defined storage. She is an MIT Advisor for Innovation, Computer Science Advisory Board for the UNR College of Engineering.
A passionate community leader, Dr. Xu is the Chairman of the WITI APAC Advisory Board and Be the Change Foundation. She is also a dedicated mentor for students at Peking University, MIT, Stanford & Berkeley Universities.
We talk about
How does one get promoted fast?
What would be examples of calculated risk at one's' job?
How does a CEO grow with their company, with the opportunity they come across?
What are the extraordinary benefits of the c-suite and boardrooms?
How does one go about planning and balancing all aspects of one’ life?
And much more
Connect with Dr. Elizabeth Xu
(6) Dr. Elizabeth Xu | LinkedIn
http://a2cacademy.org/
145 Secondaries, Selling your Pre-IPO Shares with Bryce Emo
Bryce Emo is the Founder of Sidecar
Sidecar is an advisory service for shareholders in hyper-growth companies. They aid shareholders as they navigate the private liquidity markets to fund the exercise of options and/or gain liquidity. By helping shareholders understand the value of their equity, layout the various solutions (private sale, loan, structured finance, etc.) and introduce them to providers who can help them achieve their goals.
Registered Representative of Emerson Equity LLC. Securities offered through Emerson Equity LLC, member FINRA and SIPC. All investing involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Speak to your tax and/or finance professional prior to investing. Emerson Equity LLC is not affiliated with any other entities identified herein.
We talk about
What should every founder or employee know about 409A valuations?
How does ROFR Right of First Refusal impact the sale of shares?
How could selling shares on the secondary market impact the cap table?
What is a personal liquidity model?
How long on average do these processes take?
And much more
Connect with Bryce Emo
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryce-emo-b7073a12/
Bryce@SidecarFinance.com
http://www.SidecarFinance.com
DISCLAIMER- ANYTHING MENTIONED DURING THIS AUDIO OR SHORT VIDEO RECORDING IS FOR INFORMATION & EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE INVESTMENT ADVICE. SHAWN FLYNN AND HIS GUESTS ARE MERELY STATING THEIR OPINIONS ON DIFFERENT TOPICS RELATED TO TECHNOLOGY, STARTUPS, INVESTING, THE ECONOMY, MARKETS OR COMPANIES. PLEASE TALK TO YOUR INVESTMENT ADVISOR AND DO ADDITIONAL RESEARCH AND DUE DILIGENCE ON YOUR OWN BEFORE INVESTING AND MAKING IMPORTANT INVESTMENT DECISIONS.- DISCLAIMER
Panel 4 Capital Summit and Exit Strategy
Panel 4
- Tech and the Economy...What will disrupt your business? Is your company on the verge of being disrupted and you don't even know it? What keeps you up at night? Well... we are going to unlock some information on technology that if you are not tracking today your company might fall in, with names like Blockbuster and Kodak.
Moderator
Daran Herrman CEO at Goboto | Host of Establishing your Empire with 10+ years of experience in managing online businesses, including managing strategy development, global eCommerce solutions, online marketing & multi-channel retail partnerships for business & consumer market sectors. (2) Daran Herrman | LinkedIn
Dr Elizabeth Xu Public Board Director; CEO; CTO; BMC; CPG; IBM; US Top 50 Diversity Leader; WIT, and the Hall of Fame. Dr. Xu is a passionate, global transformative leader, public company board member. She is a C-level executive with 20+ years of experience & a track record of technology, product and business strategy/execution & customer satisfaction success (5) Dr. Elizabeth Xu | LinkedIn
Guillaume jaulerry Founder & Chief Executive Officer at O Company Proven entrepreneur focused on wearable hardware, data security, cybersecurity. Global senior technology leadership experience. Solving security, privacy, and portability of all data for both consumer and enterprise markets (6) Guillaume Jaulerry | LinkedIn
Jeep Kline Venture Capital; Professional Faculty; Board of Directors. Jeep is a Founding Partner at Mr.Pink VC, a senior executive at Intel and pre-IPO tec hnology companies, and an Economist at The World Bank with 20 years expertise in driving the formation, growth, and market success of technology-based organizations in many countries. She thrives in entrepreneurial environments and is known for her strategic thinking, governance, and leadership skills (6) Jeep Kline | LinkedIn
We talk about
Where will the next big disruption happen?
What are the concerns moving forward with data privacy?
How is AI impacting the health care industry?
What is the future of the supply chain?
What are decisions companies making due to ESG concerns?
Selling Your Business from The Business Capital & Exit Strategy Summit
This is the 3rd Panel from the Half Day Summit...Enjoy
Selling your business, the secrets of the complete process
What needs to be done, before, during, and after you decide to put your company up for sale? Where are the problems that could cause the deal to fail. In the event of failure, how do you walk away keeping the maximum amount from the transaction?
Marcel Pfister Wealth Advisor for Startup Founders & Employees, ex-Goldman Sachs. His team advises founders and employees of high-growth startups on holistic wealth management solutions. Most of his clients have a big portion of their net worth in liquid stock options. He helps them mitigate that liquidity risk and create a plan to maximize after-tax proceeds of a potential sale or IPO. LinkedIn profile
Jerome Fogel Partner, Corporate Practice Group, Chair - Sports and Entertainment Group at Fogel & Potamianos LLP. Jerome is the co-founder of Fogel & Potamianos LLP. He is known as a dealmaker and innovator in the legal community. He represents successful entrepreneurs, small and lower middle market companies, and high-profile sports and entertainment leaders. He also serves as the go-to offsite general counsel for a number of organizations. He has participated in over 100 corporate, non-profit, and entertainment transactions including company formations, mergers & acquisitions, equity financing, high-profile partnerships, talent agreements, digital music distribution, television distribution, publishing, licensing, and commercial transactions. LinkedIn profile
Shawn Flynn
Shawn Flynn started his career by founding, scaling and successfully exiting a company in Beijing China. He then returned to the US to work with companies ranging from fast growing Silicon Valley startups to established overseas public companies. He brings his international experience working with all stages and sectors of businesses to his role as Principal at Global Capital Markets, a premier middle market investment bank with expertise in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, financial restructuring, and valuation and is the Host of The Silicon Valley Podcast. LinkedIn profile
Naveen Khugputh naveen@werqwise.com Co-Founder and COO of Werqwise
Broad expertise in Private Equity, Debt and Venture Capital. Over a decade spent with Lloyds Capital Markets in London and New York and LDC in UK & Asia. Involved in over 30 completed private equity transactions with a value of over $3bn USD. Naveen Khugputh | LinkedIn
Hongyi li
Li Hong Yi, is the Director of Open Government Product for Singapore(the SWAT team version of government’s core engineering unit). Hong Yi having worked in Google before returning to Singapore to start and lead his own division from ground up. He is passionate about delivering modern digital solutions to Singapore citizens he has launched some amazing nationwide-adopted consumer services and made huge differences to Singapore national engineering culture through his platform. He’s also the current Prime Minister’s son
What are the differences between working at google vs working in the Singapore public sector?
How are efficiencies in the government measured?
Are inefficiencies linear or logarithmic?
How is Singapore positioning itself to be an entrepreneur hub?
What resources are there in Singapore that a foreign startup could access and utilize?
How does one go about in the thought process of social impact and implementation of Tech?
Panel 2
• Post Pandemic Capital Structuring, where will the money come from? During the Pandemic did one of these happen to you: 1) You borrowed money and now must recapitalize and are wondering what your options are? 2) You struggled, barely survived, and now need capital to bring your company back to life? 3) Your company saw new highs and now you see unknown potential you want to raise capital to reach. These industry experts will share ideas and give you insights into potential solutions that can be implemented immediately to get you to where you want to be.
Moderator
Shawn Flynn who is a Principal at Global Capital Markets, a premier middle market investment bank with expertise in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, financial restructuring, and valuation and is the Host of The Silicon Valley Podcast. LinkedIn
Panelist
Armello Rodriguez
Has spent 15 years in the financial services industry, with the past 10 years focused on commercial banking for small to medium sized firms in California. Prior to joining LafayetteSquare, Armello started his career at Wells Fargo and most recently worked at Bank of America as VP on the Global Commercial Banking. Armello's primary focus is to partner with firms by providing strategic capital to help them achieve their growth objectives. LinkedIn profile
Conor Riley
As a Principal of Global Capital Markets is a full service investment bank focused on facilitating transactions within the Middle Market. Conor advises on a wide array of Mergers and Acquisitions across multiple industries. As well as, structuring growth capital, debt, and equity placements.LinkedIn profile
Mark DiTargiani
Senior VP, Technology Banking at Pacific Western Bank where Mark leads the Venture Banking Group that takes the approach of underwriting to the quality of a startup's technology, market opportunity, management team, and investor syndicate, PacWest can provide access to capital throughout a company’s lifecycle. LinkedIn profile
140 Grit and your Startup with Luke Hohmann
Founder and CEO of FirstRoot, Inc. Our mission is to create the next generation of impact investors. Our unique go-to-market strategy supports all stakeholders as youth use participatory budgeting to invest real money in their schools. Youth learn the 5 C's of modern education: creativity, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and civics as they experience true agency and stewardship over their futures, learning through their own experiences how money really works.
We want to get $1K into 1M schools globally and watch what happens when youth control $1B in capital.
Previously a SAFe® Framework Contributor and Principal Consultant, Luke was Founder and CEO of Conteneo, Inc. (acquired by Scaled Agile, Inc.) where he worked with an extraordinary dev team to create the Weave, Strategy Engine and Knowsy® decision agility platforms.
The author of four books, numerous articles and cited as an inventor on more than a dozen patents, Luke is an internationally recognized expert in Agile Software Development. Luke co-organized the first Agile conference in 2003, has served on the Board of the Agile Alliance and in partnership with the Scrum Alliance produced the "Collaboration at Scale", the world's largest monthly webinar devoted to helping organizations with 10 or more Scrum teams in 2 or more locations scale agility.
Luke is a highly sought after speaker has as keynoted such conferences as the Agile Alliance conference, Agile Australia, Lean-Agile Scotland, Agile New Zealand, the Austrian Innovation Forum, the CXPA and the SAFe Summit.
Luke's is the co-founder of Every Voice Engaged Foundation, 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.
In partnership with The Kettering Foundation (www.kettering.org), Conteneo created Common Ground for Action, the first scalable platform for deliberative decision-making.
A former United States National Junior Pairs Figure Skating Champion, Luke likes playing with his four kids, his wife’s cooking and long runs in the Santa Cruz mountains. Luke’s an old school Silicon Valley entrepreneur. Instead of building companies to flip, he builds companies that make the world better!
We talk about
For the different stages of a company’s growth, how can they collaborate using games to get results?
How can a company go about finding the right Investment Banker?
How important is teaching financial literacy?
What is project based, learning-by-doing?
And much more
Connect with Luke Hohmann
(5) Luke Hohmann | LinkedIn
lukehohmann@yahoo.com
firstroot.co
139 Disruptive Technology with Guillaume Jaulerry
Guillaume Jaulerry is a proven entrepreneur focused on wearable hardware, data security, cybersecurity. Global senior technology leadership experience. Solving security, privacy, and portability of all data for both consumer and enterprise markets.
International experience in 3 continents, working in sectors like fashion, auto parts, finance, international trade and manufacturing.
He started at very young age to play puzzle, having fun building computers in the 90's, gamer with Gameboy/snes and building experience in Company internship. Self-taught and curious, he was passionate in understanding all level of a company from delivering or packing to working in account and exporting/importing product from South Africa or Asia.
Multi-faceted entrepreneurs, inventor, bodyboarder, old school skater and fascinated by created a new system in the information field.
He wanted to create something unique, that's why he is the Founder and CEO of O, the first mini server into a wearable device to manage and store data.
We talk about
Why would one want to manufacture their products in the USA vs overseas?
Is a four-day workweek the best work strategy for a dynamic startup?
What is a bigger problem with network security, the software, or the hardware?
What’s it like growing a startup in stealth mode?
And much more
Connect with Guillaume Jaulerry
gjaulerry@ocompany.io
https://www.linkedin.com/in/guillaume-jaulerry-6351721a/
138 Corporations, Governments, and the People with Samira Khan
Samira Khan is a social impact changemaker + intrapreneur passionate about empathy-driven, innovative approaches to advancing societal wellbeing and solving global challenges.— This includes through tech, cross-sector business model innovation, art, education, & engagement.
She believes that unlocking human potential lies in true empowerment - one amazing way to unleash this potential, for the good of society, is social entrepreneurship + innovation. So, she does all that she can to support those worlds, and is interested in corporate social venturing + venture building, impact VC, & venture philanthropy. I’m especially committed to women, children, youth, marginalized communities, & cross-sector partnerships to address climate change.
However, we can’t even get support to those entrepreneurs or segments without shifting mindsets and behaviors/actions toward those vulnerable communities, especially amongst corporate changemakers. The key lies in more transparent access to info. and knowledge + the shared narrative written by the individuals & institutions involved. And this includes co-creating solutions, elevating creative voices, and illuminating the intersection of people & planet through cross-pollination of ideas.
Aspiring to drive greater capital commitments to the SDGs / sustainability and high value solutions that bring human beings closer to their purpose - whatever that may uniquely be. Keen on ethical / well-being tech.
~14 years of experience across continents + sectors, w/a commitment to learning & listening, holistic models, & systems change. Focus on Black & Brown communities in the US + Asia / emerging markets.
Specialties: Strategy development & implementation; interagency coordination / stakeholder engagement & facilitation; market / customer assessments; tech product innovation; CSR / social innovation; impact reporting; customer experience analyses; business development; monitoring, evaluation & learning / impact measurement & mgmt; sentiment analysis; economic pathways + education; gender; JEDI.
Her personal mission: "Empathy is the most powerful force to rewire hearts & minds for the greater wellbeing of society - without empathy, purpose means nothing and sustainability is impossible."
We talk about
Who is driving more of this movement for global impact; the corporations, the governments, the stockholders, the citizens or who and why?
How can startups benefit from this wave of thought?
What global changes are we going to be seeing in the years to come?
How would one go about living a purpose-driven life and creating a world of Changemakers?
And much more
Connect with Samira Khan
(28) Samira Khan | LinkedIn Twitter: @samiraakhan Clubhouse: @samirakhan
137 Israel and Silicon Valley with Shlomi Kofman
Shlomi Kofman began his term as Israel’s Consul General to the Pacific Northwest in August 2017. Prior to this appointment he served as a Policy Advisor to the Deputy Foreign Ministers at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Headquarters in Jerusalem, Israel.
Over the course of his 20-year diplomatic career, Kofman has served as Israel’s Deputy Consul General in New York City, Chief of Staff to Ambassadors in Washington D.C., Deputy Ambassador in Thailand and Deputy Consul General in Shanghai. His past domestic Foreign Ministry positions include Director of North American Economic Affairs, Policy Advisor to the Deputy Foreign Minister, Diplomatic Advisor & Director of the International Department in the Parliament and Ministry of National Infrastructure, and the Head of the Northeast Asia sector. Prior to joining the Foreign Ministry, Kofman worked in the high-tech industry representing the Israeli company Orbot in South Korea, as well as a consultant to a leading Israeli company, ECI.
Kofman holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations & East Asian studies from Hebrew University in Jerusalem and a Master’s from Webster University – Shanghai University of Finance & Economics. He also holds an Associate’s engineering degree.
Kofman was born in Tbilisi, the capital of the Soviet Republic of Georgia and made Aliya (immigrated) to Israel at the age of nine, after being refused for three years by soviet authorities.
He has been married for 20 years to Sharon and they have two children, Emma and Jonathan.
We talk about
What’s an average day like for a consulate general in Silicon Valley?
What are the perks or benefits the government has provided to encourage entrepreneurism among the citizens?
How important are bilateral agreements for economic development?
How advanced is the technology in Israel for desalination of water?
And much more
Connect with Shlomi Kofman
The Consul General (embassies.gov.il)
(7) Shlomi Kofman | LinkedIn
135 Selling your Company with Shawn Flynn
Shawn Flynn started as a business owner, founding, and growing a successful company in Beijing China before returning to the US to work with companies ranging from fast growing Silicon Valley startups to established overseas public companies. He brings his international experience working with all stages and sectors of businesses to his role as Principal at a premier middle market investment bank with expertise in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, financial restructuring, and valuation.
Shawn holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from UCSD and speaks Mandarin and Spanish (lived abroad for almost 8 years) and he is the host of the award-winning Podcast "The Silicon Valley Podcast"
You can contact Shawn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpflynn/
Podcast https://link.chtbl.com/TheSiliconValleyPodcast
We talk about
Why would someone want to work with an Investment Banker to Sell their Business?
Why do companies decide to sell their business?
What are the steps involved, with selling a business?
How does one go about putting a value on their company?
And much more...
Connect with ShawnFlynn
Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
135 Wealth Beyond Your Startup with Marcel Pfister
Marcel is Wealth Advisor at Farther, where he advises startup founders and early-stage employees on holistic wealth management solutions. He enjoys being part of his clients’ wealth-creation journey, from starting a business to navigating a potential exit, as well as strategizing the best and most efficient ways to leave a legacy for the next generation.
Prior to joining the Farther team, he spent most of his career as an Investment Advisor at Goldman Sachs, advising entrepreneurs, public executives, and non-profit organizations. He started his career as a Financial Analyst at Blackrock. Marcel was born and raised in Germany. At the age of 19, he moved to the United States to attend Drexel University where he obtained a degree in Finance.
We talk about
When should one start to talk about wealth management or tax strategist in the Merger or Acquisition process of their company?
Are there any rumors of regulation changes that might take place in the next year or so...?
What are some of the biggest tax issues that founder and early employees at a company face?
What are some ways that an early employee can sell shares in a private company?
And much more
Connect with Marcel Pfister
marcel@farther.com
215-317-7077
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-pfister1/
134 Beyond the Beauty Pageant with Wendy Shew
Wendy Shew, Founder of Building Education, experienced early tragedy which became her catalyst for social impact work. She’s served 25 years in community service as a youth advocate, international volunteer, and board member for numerous non-profit organizations.
Prior to community service work, Wendy attended Southern Illinois University where she studied aeronautical science, aviation management, and learned to fly, logging over 60+ hours in single engine prop planes. She went on to work in international aviation business, managing jet engine consignments while joining Women in Aviation and becoming a board member for Women In Defense, a national security organization affiliated with NDIA.
In the same year that her project brought in $5 million for the company, she volunteered at a girl’s orphanage in India which changed the way she saw herself in the world. She realized that if she could bring in $5 million to her then company, she could bring in $5 million anywhere, especially to make a greater global impact. She quit her job 4 months later and left the country to travel the world all across Asia, Europe, and Africa for six years. Wendy Shew founded Building Education after volunteering in Nepal for disaster relief during the April 2015 earthquake that damaged over 9,000 schools. Building Education’s mission serves to alleviate extreme poverty by sponsoring education and building schools to spark a legacy of change. Building Education has served to rebuild 3 schools, provide education to 400+ students, build 2 water systems, providing water to over 100+ homes, and launched women empowerment conferences that have provided skills in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and menstruation health.
Wendy is also an ultramarathon runner, and completed the 58k Cami de Cavalls North island route in Menora, Spain. As an avid runner she has placed 2nd in the Pollenca Half Marathon in Mallorca and 3rd place in the 10k Pokhara Marathon in Nepal. She is a mountain climber who has trekked mountains from the Himalayas to summiting Mount Toubkal, the tallest mountain in North Africa. She was named Top 100 Visionaries in Education in 2021 by GFEL. She is also a fashion enthusiast, model, and the current title holder of The Global Citizen’s Collective, Miss Nepal 2021 vying for the International title of Global Citizen’s Miss 2022.
We talk about How is scaling a Mountain like scaling a startup? What is multidimensional poverty? How does education impact the cycle of poverty? How does one go about learning the business culture in another country? From winning Miss Nepal, how does building a personal brand help with what you are doing? What are some of the hidden benefits of winning a beauty pageant?
Connect with Wendy Shew
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-shew-22431470/
shewendy822@yahoo.com bebuildingeducation.org
133 The Best Communicators Win with Brian Sparkes!
Brian Sparkes is an experienced consultant with a demonstrated history of working in higher education, and startup culture. Experienced in high stakes communication, presentation skills, strengthening emotional intelligence in leadership and teams, business development, building business culture, community and social capital.
We talk about
How does one emotionally connect with their message?
How to tailor a presentation with who you are talking to?
How is it best to tailor the message on each slide of a pitch deck?
When should one start to practice their communication skill...
And much more
Connect with Brian Sparkes
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian%F0%9F%92%A5-sparkes-9967a8a0/
Maya Tussing Bio
Maya is a Partner of Fairlight Advisors which helps nonprofit leaders fulfill their mission with first-class financial and investment solutions honed while working at the most respected institutions in the world.
Prior to Fairlight, Maya was the Head of BlackRock’s Institutional Index Allocation Group, where her team managed over $200B across all asset classes, investment styles and vehicles. Over the last 20 years, Maya has held senior risk management roles at firms such as BlackRock, Barclays Global Investors, Visa, and GE Capital. Additionally, she has coached hundreds of men and women at all levels of corporate and non-profit organizations to achieve personal and professional success and satisfaction. Maya is a graduate of Pomona College and holds an MBA in international finance from the University of Washington.
We talk about
Has Silicon Valley become risk adverse?
How does interest rates impact fundraising for companies in Silicon Valley?
What lessons can founders of for-profit companies take from non-profits and vice-versa?
What happens when multiple nonprofits collide?
And much more
Connect with Maya Tussing
https://www.linkedin.com/in/maya-lis-tussing/
https://www.fairlightadvisors.com/
131 Technology beyond Government with Dimitri Kusnezov
.
Dr. Dmitri Kusnezov received A.B. degrees in Physics and in Pure Mathematics with highest honors from UC Berkeley. Following a year of research at the Institut fur Kernphysik, KFA-Julich, in Germany, he attended Princeton University earning his MS in Physics and Ph.D. in Theoretical Nuclear Physics. At Michigan State University, he conducted postdoctoral research and then became an instructor.
In 1991, he joined the faculty of Yale University as an assistant professor in physics, becoming an associate professor in 1996. He has served as a visiting professor at numerous universities around the world. Dr. Kusnezov has published over 100 articles and a book.
He joined federal service at the National Nuclear Security Administration in late 2001 and is a member of the Senior Executive Service and is also a Visiting Researcher at Yale. He currently serves as Deputy Under Secretary for A.I. and Technology.
We talk about
How did culture have to evolve to be conducive for discovery to take place?
How is technology being utilized in decision making at all levels in the government?
How does one make complex decisions?
How can a young company get access to Washington DC resources and connections?
And much more
Connect with Dimitri Kusnezov
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimitri-kusnezov-097a9b68/
Marcian Ted Hoff
130 Creating the Microprocessor and beyond with Marcian "Ted" Hoff
BIOGRAPHY OF MARCIAN E. HOFF
Dr. Marcian Edward "Ted" Hoff was born in Rochester, New York. His degrees include a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, (1958) and an MS (1959) and a Ph.D. (1962), both in Electrical Engineering, from Stanford University, Stanford, California. In the 1959-1960 time frame he and his professor, Bernard Widrow, co-developed the LMS adaptive algorithm which is used in many modern communication systems, e.g. adaptive equalizers and noise-cancelling systems.
In 1968 he joined Intel Corporation as Manager of Applications Research and in 1969 proposed the architecture for the first monolithic microprocessor or computer central processor on a single chip, the Intel 4004, which was announced in 1971. He contributed to several other microprocessor designs, and then in 1975 started a group at Intel to develop products for telecommunications. His group produced the first commercially- available monolithic telephone CODEC, the first commercially-available switched-capacitor filter and one of the earliest digital signal processing chips, the Intel 2920. He became the first Intel Fellow when the position was created in 1980.
In 1983 he joined Atari as Vice President of Corporate Research and Development. In 1984 he left Atari to become an independent consultant. In 1986 he joined Teklicon, a company specializing in assistance to attorneys dealing with intellectual property litigation, as Chief Technologist, where he remained until he retired in 2007.
He has been recognized with numerous awards, primarily for his microprocessor contributions. Those awards include the Kyoto Prize, the Stuart Ballantine Medal and Certificate of Merit from the Franklin Institute, induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame and the Silicon Valley Engineering Hall of Fame, the George R. Stivitz Computer Pioneer Award, the Semiconductor Industry 50th Anniversary Award, the Eduard Rhein Foundation Technology Award, the Ron Brown Innovation Award, the Davies Medal and induction into their Hall of Fame from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation.
He has been recognized with several IEEE awards including the Cledo Brunetti Award (1980), the Centennial Medal (1984), and the James Clerk Maxwell Award (2011). He was made a Fellow of the IEEE in 1982 "for the conception and development of the microprocessor" and is now a Life Fellow. He is a named inventor or co-inventor on 17 United States patents and author or co-author of more than 40 technical papers and articles.
We talk about
How do you see the value of IP?
what should investors be thinking when they are studying a company’s IP?
What technologies were developed long ago that we are just now starting to see or as a society to adopt?
What was it like being one the inventors of the microprocessor?
How did Intel grow after the invention of the 4004
How have “Innovation” in Silicon Valley Changed over the decades
And much more...
Connect with Marcian “Ted” Hoff
Best to connect through Mike, President of Intel Alumni
(2) Mike Trainor | LinkedIn
Deepak Gupta
Deepak is a Managing Partner at Blue Bear Ventures (BVB), a seed fund investing in Applied Biology and Sustainable Economy startups emerging out of top-tier research universities in the US. He is also a startup leadership coach and coaches’ founders through their entrepreneurial journey. As a trusted advisor, he helps individuals with functional expertise in every facet of startup operations, from C-level support to finance and accounting, from fundraising to culture development, and everything else in between.
We talk about
What milestones should a company hit before going out for an A round?
What is Venture Debt?
How has deep tech changed in the last 20 years?
How does an investor plan out their milestones?
And much more...
Connect with Deepak Gupta
@DGuptaSF
deepak.gupta@bbv.io
linkedin.com/in/deepaksgupta
128 Step-by-step fundraising process with Nathan Beckord
Nathan Beckord
Earlier in my career, I started two companies, an early web catalog provider and a clinical trial software company. I also worked in investment banking, and was involved in three technology IPOs and nearly 40 acquisitions.
On the content side, I produce the popular "How I Raised it" podcast found on iTunes, SoundCloud and Spotify. I also organize various startup events such as FundingV2.com, StartupBD.com and StartupExits.com. Previously, with Pivotal Labs, I produced the ProjectStartup series.
I have an MBA in Entrepreneurship, a BSC in Finance, and I am a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). I'm on the Board of Hands On Bay Area, a non-profit. Aside from startups, my passion is sailing, and I've logged more than 10,000 coastal and offshore nautical miles. My longest sail was a 22-day non-stop Pacific Ocean crossing to French Polynesia. Currently, I race on a Knarr team in the SF Bay.
Other adventures include climbing 19,340-ft. Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa and trekking in Peru, Chile, New Zealand and the Himalayas of Nepal. I’ve also toured the U.S., Vietnam, Cambodia, Mexico, and Nicaragua by motorcycle.
Specialties: Venture capital, startups, entrepreneurial finance, business planning, business development, financial modeling, raising capital, corporate development, strategic partnerships and alliances, exit strategy, startup acquisitions, pitch coaching, investor presentations, startup strategy, go to market planning, startup M&A, private equity, angel capital.
Foundersuite brings structure, speed and efficiency to fundraising and investor relations. Used by 2500+ startups worldwide including those in YCombinator, Techstars, 500 Startups, FundersClub and more, Foundersuite also has product features for investment bankers, VCs and funding advisors.
Features Include: - Investor CRM - Investor Database - Investor Updates - Pitch Deck Hosting - Send Email Tools - Deal Docs - Founders Market - Virtual Data Room
I mainly work with early stage Internet, B2B software, mobile, and consumer product startups, and I have a strong interest in platforms, markets, and networks.
We talk about
Why are such a small percentage of companies able to raise any type of funding?
If there was one key difference that sticks out between a company that can raise funding and one can’t, what would it be?
Which fundraising steps do startup founders skip or have the most issues with?
During the outreach, how often should one be updating the materials they are sending, and should they be customized depending on who it is being sent to or is that too time consuming?
What are all the documents a startup should have ready when they go out to raise capital
And much more...
Connect with Nathan Beckord
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbeckord/
nathan@foundersuite.com
https://foundersuite.com/
Richard Hua
Worldwide Head of EPIC Leadership & Chief EQ Evangelist at Amazon
Proven leader with extensive experience in leading large, complex and globally distributed organizations. Developed and implemented innovative expansion strategies and groundbreaking programs across two continents. Possesses outstanding skill in evangelizing ideas, mentoring empathically, building teams and leading change initiatives, which transformed multiple organizations from bottom tier performers to top tier performers. Globally respected speaker with audiences as large as 10,000.
Consistent track record of exceeding expectations for revenue goals and achieving the highest levels of customer satisfaction. Spearheaded training programs to evangelize cloud solutions, both with internal audiences and with external customers. Regularly commended by customers and colleagues for ability to add value through technical knowledge, communication skills, and mentoring expertise.
Founded the Amazon Culture of Innovation program in the SF Bay Area and regularly present innovation briefings to senior executives of the world's largest corporations. Launched emotional intelligence training programs at multiple companies which have impacted thousands of people across by enabling their professional, personal, and interpersonal success.
Highly refined ability to synthesize information and communicate insights and solutions. Utilized this skill to earn a perfect score of 1600 on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Earned a Bachelor’s of Science with Honors in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the University of California, Berkeley. Awarded the university’s most prestigious distinction, the Regents’ & Chancellor’s Scholarship.
On today Show we Talk about:
We dive into what is the Amazon “6 pager” and how it is used to propose a new idea?
What are the 4-pillars of innovation?
What is “Day 1” of the internet?
How should someone train their mind to make it through tough times?
Connect with Rich Hua
https://www.linkedin.com/in/richhua/
richhua@amazon.com
richardhua.co
Sam Wong
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-wong-startup/
sam@execmatters.com
https://www.fundablestartups.com/
Jason Wolf Bio
From my days as a young officer in the special forces, to work with breakthrough startups and at-risk youth today, through many tech start-up and executive roles, I seek to make a positive impact on the world around me.
I am passionate about translating grand visions into effective strategies, execution frameworks, and teamwork that lead to financially and socially impactful success!
We talk about
Lessons learned from a entrepreneur father.
What skills transfer from the Special Forces into the startup world?
What its like to be at a company the raises a billion dollars only to collapse?
What is the importance and people and a network in a company?
How is AI helping to secure people?
And much more...
Connect with Jason Wolf
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsnwlf/
jason@shulia.com
Home | Genie (lifesgenie.com)
Show notes for Jeep Kline
Venture Capital Opportunities in Southeast Asia and more with Jeep Kline
Jeep Kline who it the first Thailand Venture Capitalist, her experiences include creating a startup, taking a leadership role in technology companies, and managing Big Data at The World Bank (and teaching at Hass school of business at Berkeley. She enjoys applying strategies and analytics to solve difficult problems and create meaningful impacts.
On today Show we Talk about:
For emerging countries is impact investing particularly important and if so why or why not?
How should one look at a company to scale it and grow it globally?
Does ESG investing impact how a company can scale?
Of ESG, which of those three components will it be hardest for startups to fulfill?
Connect with Jeep
- Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeepkline/
- Clubhouse @jeepkline
- Twitter @jeep_kline
- Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jeepkline
Kison Patel In a world of increasing technological disruption, M&A is becoming necessary in order to stay relevant. However, these transactions are failing because important deal processes, such as diligence and integration, are being poorly conducted and without proven techniques for success.
As a former M&A advisor, I’ve seen these challenges first hand and set out to develop tools and techniques that address these industry failings and enable M&A practitioners to drive growth and maximize value.
On today Show we Talk about:
What is needed to have a successful Agile Process in an M&A deal? How impactful is poor process management in a deal? How important is integration in value creation? What questions should a team ask themselves before the deal closes about the integrations? And much more....
Connect with Kison Patel
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/kisonpatel/ kison@dealroom.net M&A Science | Technology, Training, & a Community for M&A (mascience.com)
Adrian Rivodeaux Bio:
I once took a course in astrophysics at MIT because I wanted to understand how binary star systems work. In this process of discovery I learned that Jupiter has a molten metal core entirely made of hydrogen. How fascinating.
In spite of never becoming an astrophysicist, this unexpected discovery prompted me to start looking at the world differently and ask myself about what other unexpected things are hidden below the surface. What else isn’t obvious about how the world works?
After many years of negotiating through the world of startups, I stumbled upon a complex communication problem; even when we’re telling the truth, we’re not always being believed.
In the pursuit of being a better deal-maker, I decided to once again look underneath the surface. I went on a journey to discover more about the mind. What are the things that allow us to be believed when we’re selling?
After 6 years as a fund manager, which gave me deep understanding of what investors expect, and 4 years of research into behavioral and cognitive psychology, I developed a knack for teaming up with tenacious people to solve complex revenue problems in an evolved and scalable way.
I created GetTractionTools in 2019 with the goal of re-thinking the foundation of the sales process and steering it towards a function of shared value instead of a sole function of profit.
I speculated that by merging the mechanics of building revenue operations with a deep understanding of the complexities of human behavior, we could create pathways to finding shared value; building value not just for our clients, but also for our clients' customers.
Over the past 2 years we’ve pioneered a more intuitive and customer-centric approach to revenue operations that has created more than $100 million in value for our clients.
We talk about
Diplomacy vs negotiation? What are sales?
Should a company be product driven, or sales driven? Or what’s the right combo?
What is a sales process? What are the components of one?
How should a company implement a new sales strategy?
How is AIM/ML being used in Tele sales during the sales process?
And much more...
Connect with Adrian
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-rivodeaux/
Email adrian@gettractiontools.com
- Phone 213-785-7292 (Work)
CJ Gilbert
CJ Gilbert lives with his wife and 3 kids in La Mesa, CA. He first started in web design in 1995 and has been the CEO of GilbertStudios since founding it in 2004.
CJ has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and business owners in San Diego and beyond with their websites and marketing needs. And he is constantly studying and learning more about social media, business, its operations, sales, and marketing.
On today Show we Talk about:
How does one go about finding a developer for their site?
What are the metrics that should be tracked and who at the company should know what?
How are websites evolving or what are the next trends that people should be aware of or thinking about?
What is the number one problem you see companies make with their website?
And much more...
Connect with CJ
https://www.mywebsitesafari.com/
619-512-3210
(call or text ok)
hello@gilbertstudios.com
James Cape
James has worked in the Silicon Valley high technology industry since 1983. During his first eighteen years he worked at Intel Corporation where he gained broad experience in a variety of sales, marketing, and venture capital positions.
On today Show we Talk about:
What are some critical competitive advantages that Silicon Valley has?
Who coined the term “Silicon Valley”?
How has life in Silicon Valley changed in the last 60 years?
What the Intel Alumni Network is and what is the group working to accomplish?
Connect with James Cape
https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-cape-692110/
jamescape122@gmail.com
120 The Future of Crypto with Monty Metzger
CEO and Founder at LCX - Liechtenstein Cryptoassets Exchange. Monty C. M. Metzger is an internet veteran and acclaimed thought leader on the future of digital.
LCX is a new category leader in blockchain - establishing an ecosystem for the new financial world one step at a time. Enabling professional investors to trade, invest and manage crypto assets: Trading Platform for Digital Assets, building an Exchange for Security Tokens and other crypto assets. LCX is proud member of the World Economic Forum (WEF).
Monty found his first Internet company back in 1998, since then he co-founded several tech companies, co-founded a future technology consultancy with offices in Beijing, Tokyo, Munich and New York, then founded a registered Venture Capital Fund in Luxembourg as General Partner and invested in outstanding technology companies globally.
Acclaimed Keynote Speaker and Futurist: http://blog.monty.de/keynote-speaker. Author of Mobile Future 2020 (published 2009) and Digital Future 2030. Speaker and Delegate at Conferences such as World Economic Forum WEF Davos, Abu Dhabi Media Forum, Blockchain Symposium Oman, Digital Leadership Forum Hong Kong, DLD Conference, Mobile World Toronto, Monaco Media Forum, Risk Minds International, Skoll World Forum Oxford, Spark Conference Montenegro, FIA Mobility Conference Tokyo and others.
Founding Partner at Digital Leaders Ventures (DLV) - investing in technology companies globally.
Founder at Digital Leaders, a network of some of the most influential leaders hosting executive programs, learning journeys and immersion tours to Silicon Valley, Tel Aviv, Beijing, Bangalore, Seoul or Tokyo.
On today Show we Talk about:
What is the web 3.0?
What is “Internet of Value”?
Which Assets will be Tokenizable?
How important are crypto exchanges?
Why is Liechtenstein so open and progressive with its views towards Fintech?
And much more....
Connect with Monty
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/montymetzger/
Twitter @montymetzger or @LCX Web www.LCX.com
Patrick Geddes
From early in his career in the investment industry, Geddes was eager to look out for consumer interests above the industry's motivations. That passion led him to serve as Research Director and CFO at the financial services firm, Morningstar; teaching graduate-level portfolio theory at UC Berkeley Extension; co-founding Aperio Group, a $42 billion investment management firm (as of the end of 2020) with a consumer-first, honesty-based mission; and retiring in 2021 to work on a lifelong goal—penning Transparent Investing.
Patrick is known for taking the dry and often difficult to understand topic of investing and turning it into one that’s easily understood with plenty of his signature humor along the way. And over the last few decades, he’s done exactly that, sharing his insight, stories, and humor to both consumer and professional audiences in the world of investing.
If you’re interested in inviting Patrick to speak at your next investment-related event, inquire here: https://patrickgeddes.co/speaking/
We talk about
How did Aperio scale from 0-42 billion under management?
What is a company’s 3-hat rule?
How often do you think a CEO should be reviewed?
What are the differences with negative screening vs positive screening for ESG when it comes to investing?
Connect with Patrick Geddes
https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-geddes-929b15213/
Email pgeddes@patrickgeddes.co
Jerome Fogel is the co-founder of Fogel & Potamianos LLP. He is known as a dealmaker and innovator in the legal community. He represents successful entrepreneurs, small and lower middle market companies, and high-profile sports and entertainment leaders. He also serves as the go-to offsite general counsel for a number of organizations. He has participated in over 100 corporate, non-profit, and entertainment transactions including company formations, mergers & acquisitions, equity financing, high-profile partnerships, talent agreements, digital music distribution, television distribution, publishing, licensing, and commercial transactions.
On today Show we Talk about:
How should a buyer plan for post closer to maximize the value of what has been acquired?
Is it common for attorneys to try to take over deals?
“Time kills all deals” or “A window can open as fast as they can close” do you think these common sayings are true, why or why not?
The attorney and seller risk tolerance. How well should they be in alignment?
Connect with Jerome Fogel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeromefogel/
Website https://fpgeneralcounsel.com/
Email jfogel@fpgeneralcounsel.com
Elizabeth Funk
I work at the intersection of profit and purpose: harnessing the power of capitalism to solve the world’s most pressing problems. I believe that capitalism and entrepreneurial spirit are incredibly powerful forces that can be harnessed to create impact with magnitude.
I was there at the very beginning of the impact investing movement. In 2004 I started the Dignity Fund, one of the first for-profit funds investing in high potential microfinance institutions. With very small loans of $500 or $1000, we enabled over 35,000 aspiring poor entrepreneurs in developing countries to start businesses and build their own way out of poverty.
The Dignity Fund was revolutionary at the time: people didn’t think it was possible to make money while doing good. I am now a frequent public speaker and avid evangelist for changing that thinking. I love to inspire investors to think consciously about the impact their money can have, people with good ideas to structure them for profit so they can be sustainable, and corporate leaders to integrate their values into their business strategies.
After business school I joined a tiny start-up called Yahoo! where I had the honor of playing an early hand in designing how the world would experience and use the internet. I helped create and grow several of Yahoo!’s products but my favorite was Yahoo! Shopping, a pioneer in shaping e-commerce. I am currently the Senior General Partner of Dev Equity, an impact fund focused on low-income housing, urban revitalization, and sustainable agriculture in Latin America. I serve on the boards of portfolio companies ranging from a hot chili pepper company in Ecuador (with a female CEO) to a cacao-based snack company in Costa Rica and Peru.
I have recently turned my attention closer to home and the enormous crisis of homelessness in California. I have started a social enterprise, DignityMoves, to build innovative interim housing for the tens of thousands individuals and families facing homelessness.
On today Show we Talk about:
What is the difference between Environmental, Social, & Governance (ESG) investing vs Impact investing?
Where are the greatest opportunities for microlending?
What are the pros and cons of a venture being for profit or nonprofit?
What are typical questions that an impact board asks themselves?
Connect with Elizabeth Funk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-funk/
Website dignitymoves.com
Email elizabeth@dignityfund.com
Peter Cannone
Peter is the current Chairman and CEO at Demand Science . He is a senior executive with proven experience as a strategic leader of large and mid-market public and private technology companies in both growth and turnaround modes.
Between his CEO roles and his service on numerous corporate and nonprofit boards, he has been privileged to work alongside some of the top people in the best venture and private equity firms.
Throughout his career, he has been a consistent creator of business scale, value, and superior returns for investors and shareholders.
Peter’s proudest career accomplishments, however, are related to building and developing high-performance teams and executives. Presently there are 14 executives who worked on Peter’s teams who now hold the title of CEO or President.
Peter has also has been honored to have been associated for many years with the GreenLight Charitable Foundation. GreenLight raises and invests funds to transform lives in high-poverty urban areas. The GreenLight Golf For Good charitable golf tournament, of which I’m an organizer, raises over $250 thousand annually to help in these efforts.
On today Show we Talk about:
What’s it like for a company to have completed seven acquisitions in the global market without institutional capital?
How does one go about creating a synergistic acquisition strategy among companies they don’t even own yet?
Who does more due diligence on a company, a Venture Capitalist, a Private Equity group, or an outside person about to join a company as a new CEO?
What are the key features should one look for in assembling a board for a company that has ambitions to go public?
Connect with Peter Cannone
Peter Cannone | LinkedIn
Website https://demandscience.com/
Gustavo Netto
merger #acquisition #startups #entreprenuer #business
✓ Award-winning Digital Strategist who unites business and IT teams to develop and deploy cutting-edge digital technologies that accelerate growth and profitability.
✓ Experienced digital sales professional with a reputation for building trusted relationships and delivering quality customer experience.
✓ Accomplished Team Builder known for leveraging technical proficiency and business acumen to helm cohesive internal teams to deliver top performance.
✓ Inspirational Leader who honed collaborative style and exceptional work ethic as an NCAA Division 1 soccer player in the US and Brazil. Fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
On today Show we Talk about:
How does a strategic buyer look at a company...from what angels?
What is the additional value of a product if it has IP attached to it?
Why do acquisitions fail?
If your company has only been around a few years, how should you prepare your company to get the maximum value for an acquisition?
Connect with Gustavo Netto
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/gnetto/
http://www.gustavonetto.com
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
114 Disrupting the Current Venture Capital Model with Kyle York
Kyle York is co-founder, CEO and managing partner at York IE™ where he sets the vision and leads the vertically integrated strategic growth and investment firm helping reshape the way companies are built, scaled and monetized. Kyle works closely with entrepreneurs, operators and investors to help them realize their shared ambition to build good companies, create new jobs, grow generational wealth and impact the world.
Advising and investing in over 100 startups this past decade, Kyle is an active board member for Blustream, CloudApp, Lytica, TorchPro, Voyage SMS & chairperson for Canvs AI. Kyle is a co-founder of 3rd generation family business, YORK Athletics MFG., an ecommerce footwear brand in Boston. Kyle’s most successful startup engagement to date is Fastly ($FSLY) who IPO’d in 2019 and peaked at nearly $13B. Current York IE portfolio highlights include Cyberhaven, Metadata, WEVO and Vetro.
Previously, Kyle was the vice president of product strategy for Oracle Cloud Infrastructure and general manager for Oracle’s Dyn Global Business Unit, focused on growing Oracle’s cloud market position and leading Dyn operations. Founders and talent from Oracle acquisitions StackEngine, Wercker, DataScience.com and Zenedge reported into Kyle’s strategy and marketing organization. Prior to joining Oracle, Kyle was an executive with Dyn since 2008, primarily as Chief Revenue Officer. During his years there he spearheaded corporate strategy, growth, and go-to-market, scaling to $100M annual recurring revenue, 5000 enterprise customers, one million paid users, $100M fundraised, 500 global employees, and 11 executed M&A transactions, which led to its strategic acquisition by Oracle in 2016. Kyle past served as an independent board member for Datanyze (ZoomInfo), Assent Compliance (Warburg Pincus) and Flowtraq (Riverbed).
As an expert in the global internet, cloud, SaaS, IaaS, and technology markets and trends, Kyle has been featured in publications including the Wall Street Journal, Entrepreneur, the New York Times, TechCrunch, USA Today, and Wired, and on broadcasts such as NPR’s All Tech Considered, NBC’s Today Show and PBS’s Frontline. He has been a guest speaker at many conferences worldwide educating and inspiring audiences.
Kyle has spent his entire career working in the internet and enterprise software industries driving growth for subscription business models. Prior to joining Dyn, he spent six years at vertical SaaS company WhippleHill Communications (EdTech), which was acquired by Blackbaud in 2014. Kyle has a BS in marketing from Bentley University.
On today Show we Talk about:
How has the market for B2B Saas Changed over the years?
How will the current VC model be disrupted?
How do new investors break into the coveted space of talking to the best companies?
Advice or wisdom do you have for early-stage companies for 2022?
Connect with Kyle York
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyork20/
Website york.ie
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Koki Uchiyama is Founder and CEO of Hottolink Inc. He founded hottolink in 2000 and lead it to first IPO among the social media analytics / listening players in the world. He and his team have been exploring the possibility of utilizing Social Big Data and AI especially to support Brands to create and conduct the marketing strategy driven by Data and Evidence for almost 20 years, so he is the pioneer of data driven marketing. Prior to Hottolink Inc., Koki was engaged in the project of developing one of the first Japanese Internet search engines, when he was in graduate school of Tokyo University in 1995, and then he joined the search engine company founded based on the project, as Vice President.
He also has a strong passion to do social activities. One of his major activities is to lead the projects called as "Famiee projects" which aim to make the society accept the diverse form of family, including LGBTQ couples. He founded non-profit organizations which (1) issue partnership certificates for LGBTQ couples based on blockchain technology and (2)organize the network of big corporations who provide the benefits or services not only for legally married couples but also for families of LGBT couples with the certificates. He is also one of founders and council members of the first International Boarding High School in Japan, called UWC ISAK JAPAN, which gives scholarships to 70% of students coming around the world to create diversity of students in rich/poor, nationality, culture, language, religion etc. His other major activity is to support young entrepreneurs in the world to grow, by taking leadership in the world-wide Entrepreneurs Organization.
On today Show we Talk about:
What was it like to get an Acquisition offer from Softbank and turn it down?
How is running a public company different than running a private company with investors?
Can entrepreneurs from Japan be successful in the US markets?
What are the possibilities for blockchain technology in the future?
Connect with Koki Uchiyama
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kokiuchiyama/
Barry O’Reilly
Barry O’Reilly is an entrepreneur, business advisor and author who has pioneered the intersection of business model innovation, product development, organizational design, and culture transformation.
Barry is the co-founder of Nobody Studios, a crowd-infused, high-velocity venture studio with the mission to create 100 compelling companies over the next 5 years.
Barry is author of two international bestsellers, Unlearn: Let Go of Past Success to Achieve Extraordinary Results, and Lean Enterprise: How High Performance Organizations Innovate at Scale—part of the Eric Ries series, and a HBR must read for CEOs and business leaders. He writes for The Economist, and is faculty at Singularity University.
On today Show we Talk about:
What is Agile and how is it used?
What is Nobody Studios and what are the goals it wants to accomplish?
How is one able to live all around the wrong while progressing their career?
What was it like to know Elon Musk when he just founded his first company Zip2?
Connect Barry
Website https://barryoreilly.com/
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/barryoreilly/
John McNulty
On today’s show, we chat with John McNulty who has been a driving force in the technology industry for almost forty years. He has held leadership positions starting as General Manager at Intel in 1980 and including Senior VP & GM roles at two firms and President, CEO and Chairman of four other companies in the software, hardware, networking, and communications industries. Today, Mr. McNulty serves on the Board of Directors of four private technology companies and is also a member of the University of Notre Dame College of Engineering Advisory Council.
On today Show we Talk about:
Does the best product always win?
How did culture and management scale with Intel?
How can one go about changing a company’s culture?
When one takes a chip to the market is there a different strategy between markets?
Connect with John McNulty
Actually, you have to go through James Cape
https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-cape-692110/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Eric Espinosa
Eric is a serial entrepreneur with a passion for helping CEOs and Small Business Owners succeed.
If you're starting up a business - Venture Validator can help you find product/market fit so you don't waste thousands of dollars on and months of your time building the wrong solution. If you're a community organizer and would like me to speak at your conference, webinar, etc. - I have some good content - send me a message!
If you have an established business - Coconut VA is a virtual assistant staffing agency that can help you take back your evenings, weekends, and vacations by outsourcing your $10/hr tasks to a stellar Filipino remote worker. DM me and we can get you started on the #VacationLaptopless Challenge!
On today Show we Talk about:
How do most startups find, or look for, product market fit?
How do you see the University system adapting to better fit the needs of the current startup ecosystem?
What items can a startup use an outsource team for?
How do you see the future of constructing a startup team?
Connect Eric
Website https://www.coconutva.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-espinosa/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Shownotes for Amy Siedman
Noble Profit founder and BFLO creator is an early pioneer of interactive media, Amy created technology experiences for companies like PacBell, Lotus, Sun, ValueClick Media, Disney, MGM, Warner Brothers, Fox, and launched design firm Creative Entity. Earlier, Amy’s activism and passion for the environment expressed through award-winning photography, art, film, writing, music and education. Fusing her work, she formed Incredible Places, Made For the Media, and served as a NPS technology advisor, a scientific visualization artist fellow at SNRI in Yosemite, UNEP blockchain advisor and a myriad of NGO initiatives.
NOBLE PROFIT AND BFLO TECHNOLOGY
Noble Profit is a sustainability information and technology company.
BFLO is a technology to help businesses and investors track, report and verify sustainability claims. Today we provide a toolset for transparency and connecting disconnected information. We are creating BFLO Commons, a shared decentralized information repository of the world's sustainability information.
BFLO offers a tool for transparency mapping climate and SDGs to support ESG reporting which connects information across silos. Connected third party verifications offer proof of reputation as anchors of truth using smart contracts in an ever shifting digital landscape.
For businesses, investors and agencies globally looking for transparency around sustainability, BFLO provides a blockchain protocol, network and decentralized solutions to deliver real-time reporting and trusted third-party verification of SDGs and climate information.
Unlike other sustainability reporting systems, BFLO NFTs unites disconnected information across value chains and makes it accessible and actionable via a decentralized network. Demonstrate your leadership in transparency and deepen the visibility of your ESG commitments using BFLO technology.
On today Show we Talk about:
What were some of the lessons you learned when transitioning from a media company to a technology heavy startup?
What is Environment, Social, and Corporate Governance(ESG) and what we should know about it, in our futures?
What government groups or changes in laws should people be aware of?
Connect with Amy
Website
www.NobleProfit.com ~ Connecting Sustainable Business, Impact & Clean Tech
www.BFLO.io ~ Decentralizing Sustainable Business and Investment
Daniel Idzkowski
CEO & Co-Founder of Sidepocket and Skunklock
Sidepocket is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor bringing cutting-edge technology and quantitative strategies to the everyday retail investor.
SKUNKLOCK is the first ever bicycle, motorcycle, scooter, and moped lock to "fight back" against thieves using chemicals.
On today Show we Talk about:
How has Fintech changed over the last 5 years
How is being the founder of a pure software company different from being a founder of a hardware company?
What is a quantitative portfolio?
Connect with Daniel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielidzkowski/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Shownotes for Ari Newman
Co-Founder and Managing Director at Massive Capital Partners. Partner at The Fund Rockies (side hustle)
15 years on the operating side (2x founder). VC since 2012. Mentor/Advisor and Board Member.
Previous Companies: Techstars (Partner on Venture Team - now over 500M in AUM) Filtrbox - Social Media Management - Techstars class #1, sold to Jive Software (Boulder, CO) Newman Venture Advisors (early-stage boutique investing and advisory) (Boulder, CO) JustOn.com - Dot.com era file-sharing platform - sold to Novell, then spun out Volera (Bay Area, CA)
Occasionally blogging at arinewman.com
On today Show we Talk about:
What’s the difference when working with a company when you are an advisor vs an angel investor in the company?
What was it like building web applications during the 1st dot-com era?
Product vs Sales. What’s it like being the “unpopular” person in any of your roles?
Connect Ari
https://www.linkedin.com/in/arinewman/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Jonathan Parkhurst
As Safehavn's Founder & CEO, Jonathan is a leader and innovator in the recovery industry. Jonathan owned one of the largest continuums of care sober living companies in Northern California, Stepping Up. In 2015 Stepping up was acquired by Cornerstone Sober living. After being acquired, Jonathan started a consulting firm focused on organizations with a need to scale either top talent or topline revenue. As a strategic partner in talent acquisition and market acquisition, Jonathan led talent growth for companies like Enphase Energy, GoPro, and WeWork. Jonathan served on the Board of Marin County Drug and Alcohol, he is the Northern California Outreach Coordinator for the Black Americans in AA, As a homeless activist. He is also on the Board of Directors for the Homes for the Homeless. He experienced homelessness in San Francisco before going on to become a tech entrepreneur and app innovator. Jonathan is also a veteran of Desert Storm. Today, he is using his experience to give back and help others transition from drug and alcohol addiction, homelessness, and other afflictions.
On today Show we Talk about:
Practical leadership advice can you share with founders around the world?
Struggle with “go to market fit” and how one can go about getting their product out to the masses.
Are there any laws or regulations on the horizon that will help drive sustainability?
Taking on the Homeless epidemic in the US with technology.
Connect with Jonathan
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanparkhurst/
Website https://goseekhaven.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Alisa was named the #1 Startup Coach in the world at the Thinkers50 Marshall Goldsmith Leading Coaches Awards in London. She was also named one of the Top 30 Global Gurus for Startups. Based in NYC, she coaches startup CEOs, co-founders, other startup executives and board members all over the world. She also coach senior and emerging leaders from Fortune 500 companies. Her clients include Venmo, Foursquare, InVision, Etsy, The Wirecutter (sold to The New York Times), Pfizer, Novartis, Dell, Hitachi, IBM, Calvin Klein, Tory Burch, The New York Times. I also speak at Cornell, Harvard, The Naval War College and am the executive coach for the Runway Program at Cornell Tech.
On today Show we Talk about:
How can praise be Your Secret Superpower?
When measuring performance, what should be measured?
How does a CEO “Manage their Board?”
What should one do when their co-founder, “Can’t keep up”?
What is the CEO megaphone effect?
Connect with Alisa
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisacohn/
Website alisacohn.com
Email alisa@alisacohn.com
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Shownotes for Dylan Malot
Most of what matters in leading a fulfilling life cannot be bought. Healthy bodies, minds and relationships are crucial to happiness, as well as the fruits of creative effort beyond the trappings of prosperity. While business stress is present at every level of wealth, confidence in our financial security allows us to focus on our pursuits, family and community to make the lives of others better.
Growing up in a family-owned business—what my father always called the “business school of hard knocks,” I witnessed firsthand the passion, struggles and successes that went into a vibrant middle market business with international operations. That experience, coupled with my fascination for business and investing, has led me to where I am today. I advise entrepreneurs through decisions on what matters most to them and tie their creations to their livelihoods, giving and future endeavors. I build bridges between values and capital—in planning, philanthropy and portfolios.
Helping my clients solve problems, deeply understand their choices, and make wise decisions is the best part of being an advisor. I help them navigate their complex financial lives and to be wise stewards of their wealth by deeply understanding their values and how to align their resources with those values. Most of my clients are beyond concerns about their financial security—they are most concerned about making sure that they are capturing the right opportunities, mitigating risk and improving tax efficiency. My advice empowers them to make the right decisions while understanding why they are making them.
We Talk About
What are some of the biggest mistakes founders of companies make when they sell their companies?
What happens to your taxes when there is a valuation “POP” in your startup’s equity?
Should Environment, Social, and corporate governance (ESG) concern a startup founder and their company?
Is there benefits for Startup founders to join ACG?
For informational purposes only; not an advertisement and does not constitute an endorsement of any particular wealth transfer strategy. Bernstein does not provide legal or tax advice. Consult with competent professionals in these areas before making any decisions.
Connect with Dylan
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-dylan-malot-a782648/
Axel Kloth
Axel is a physicist by training, and he is used to the need for large-scale compute. Axel, discovered over 30 years ago that scalability of processor performance was paramount for solving any computational problem. That necessitated a new paradigm in computer architecture. At Parimics, SSRLabs and Axiado he was able to show that new thinking was needed, and what novel practical solutions could look like. He is now repeating that approach with Abacus Semi.
On today Show we Talk about:
What is an Application Programming Interface, an API for short?
Why do we need API’s?
Are there legal issues on use and modification of APIs?
If you are in school right now, studying Computer Science, what would you learn and why?
Where will industry have the most problems in the years to come?
What would be an ideal API?
What are the Pros and Cons of API’s?
Connect Axel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/axelkloth/
http://www.abacus-semi.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Shownotes for Lu Zhang
Lu Zhang is the Founder and Managing Partner of Fusion Fund, a renowned Silicon Valley based investor, a serial entrepreneur and a Stanford Engineering alumna. Fusion Fund is active in supporting early-stage entrepreneurs who are looking to build globally disruptive companies using innovative technologies to drive systemic change originating from the U.S market. For the past couple of years, Lu leads the Fusion Fund team funnels exits of multiple portfolios’ IPO and M&As.
Lu is a World Economic Forum (Davos) Young Global Leader and was also recently selected as the Best 25 Female early stage Investor by Business Insider. She has also garnered other accolades including the Featured Honoree in VC of Forbes 30 Under 30, Silicon Valley Women of Influence, Town & Country 50 Modern Swans – Entrepreneurship Influencer and Top 10 All America Chinese Youth. As one of the top female investors in America, Lu was featured in the book – Women Who Venture, and her story was a case study of UN Women Leaders in Action series. Prior to starting Fusion Fund, Lu was the Founder and CEO of a medical device company focused on non-invasive technology for the early diagnosis of Type II diabetes (acquired in 2012).
Lu is a frequent speaker at tech events and conferences and also serves as a mentor and advisor to several tech innovation programs in Silicon Valley. Lu is also the board member and chairman of the Youth Council of Future Forum and Future Science Award
On today Show we Talk about:
What experiences, education, or background, should a fund manager have?
Techniques or strategies to raising a fund?
How is raising the second fund different from the first?
Secrets for founder or investors on time management or priorities with goals and getting things done?
Connect with Lu
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/luzhangvc/
Website www.fusionfund.com
Twitter @luzhangvc
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Sam is a CEO coach, interim CEO/CTO/CFO, a Silicon Valley advisor and the author of 21 Secrets of Successful Startups, a book about world-class execution for startups. As a serial entrepreneur, he has been CEO, CTO, or VP Engineering / TechOps for five companies, driving multiple acquisitions. As a hands-on “roll up the sleeves” startup advisor, Sam draws from his 30+ years of successes and failures to train and help entrepreneurs with execution, fundability, fundraising, strategy, product/market fit, product management, finance, operations, legal, talent development and founder wellness.
We Talk About
- How did going through a failed acquisition affect the company?
- How was your M&A deck different from a fundraising pitch deck?
- Why is having multiple offers to choose from important, as the seller of a business?
- How does an Investment Banker prep an Owner/ Founder of a company for a sale?
Connect with Sam Wong
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-wong-startup/
Website https://www.fundablestartups.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Shawn Flynn spent 4 plus years living and conducting business in Beijing, China. While in China, he founded, grew, and profitably exited a successful education company. Shawn moved back to San Francisco to invest his experience, connections, and resources back into the world’s deepest and most vibrant technology ecosystem.
Shawn works with institutions, governments, and various capital sources, to help promote economic growth at a global scale. He is heavily involved in the Silicon Valley technology ecosystem of fast growing, high potential businesses. He has played a pivotal role to help multi-nationals, both pre and post-IPO companies including overseas “Unicorns”, set up operations in Silicon Valley while connecting prominent Silicon Valley companies with strategic and funding sources overseas. Shawn’s contacts, talent, and energy are directed at achieving Global Capital’s Clients’ goal of maximizing shareholder value during liquidity and growth capital events.
Shawn is the founder of the TV show “Silicon Valley Successes” and hosts the podcast “The Silicon Valley Podcast”. He is passionate about building bridges that connect Silicon Valley to the rest of the world.
Shawn holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from UCSD and speaks Mandarin and Spanish. He also holds FINRA Series SIE, 7, 24, 63, and 79 licenses.
On today Show we Talk about:
Key takeaways from interviewing some of the biggest leaders in Silicon Valley.
What’s next for the podcast
Thank you for all the help
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Steve Schneider joined ZAP as Chief Executive Officer and Director in 2002 helping raise nearly $1 billion and at the same time successfully listing ZAP on the NYSE.
He is the founder of Voltage Vehicles the core of ZAP's business operations. Schneider’s education and early career in the automotive industry include positions with specialty and fuel-efficient automobiles offered by Honda, VW, Renault, Ford, Smart and DeLorean.
Mr. Schneider completed a 51% acquisition of Jonway Automobile. This purchase was first time in history that any foreign company has taken a controlling interest in a Chinese Automobile Mfg Plant. Mr. Schneider next completed the acquisition of 100% of Aptera Electric Car.
He is currently the CEO of Homes 4 the Homeless where they are combining automotive and modular applications for an effective volume solution to the homeless housing crisis as well as rapid rehousing for disaster relief victims.
On today Show we Talk about:
What was it like to raise 1 billion in funding?
How is it different raising capital from China vs the US?
Has the Electric Vehicle market evolved as one would have predicted over the last 20 yrs
Possible solutions to solve the Homeless epidemic that’s growing in the US?
Connect with Steve
Website https://homes4thehomeless.org/
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-schneider-%E5%8F%B2%E8%92%82%E8%8A%AC-%E6%96%BD%E5%A5%88%E5%BE%B7-32321020/
Email Steve@homes4thehomeless.org
Sapien where this was filmed
https://sapiensimpact.com/
Avram Miller served as Vice President, Business Development for Intel Corporation for over a decade, where he was the driving force behind Intel’s successful initiative to establish residential broadband Internet access. In 1991, he co-founded Intel Capital, which became one of the top corporate venture capital groups in the world. When USA Today profiled Miller in March 1996, it referred to him as “A One Man Think Tank” and in the same article, Brian Roberts, CEO of Comcast, gave Miller “much of the credit” for the development of the cable modem.
We Talk About
What was the mission and goals for Intel Capital?
What does it mean to invest in a beautiful house in a bad neighborhood or a bad house in a beautiful neighborhood?
How important Is a succession plan in a company?
If one was born today, how should they go about getting an education?
Connect with Avram
https://www.linkedin.com/in/avram/
For Book
For more information, visit: www.twothirdsdone.com and www.wildduckflight.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Publicity Contacts:
Mallory Campoli || Erin Reback Cipiti
856-489-8654 x1030 || x1021
mallory.campoli@smithpublicity.com
erin.rebackcipiti@smithpublicity.com
On July 26, 2018, Craig Allen began his tenure in Washington, DC as the president of the US-China Business Council (USCBC), a private, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization representing over 200 American companies doing business with China. Prior to joining USCBC, Craig had a long, distinguished career in US public service.
Craig began his government career in 1985 at the Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration (ITA). He entered government as a Presidential Management Intern, rotating through the four branches of ITA. From 1986 to 1988, he was an international economist in ITA’s China Office.
In 1988, Craig transferred to the American Institute in Taiwan, where he served as Director of the American Trade Center in Taipei. He held this position until 1992, when he returned to the Department of Commerce for a three-year posting at the US Embassy in Beijing as Commercial Attaché.
In 1995, Craig was assigned to the US Embassy in Tokyo, where he served as a Commercial Attaché. In 1998, he was promoted to Deputy Senior Commercial Officer. In 1999, Craig became a member of the Senior Foreign Service.
From 2000, Craig served a two-year tour at the National Center for APEC in Seattle. While there, he worked on the APEC Summits in Brunei, China, and Mexico. In 2002, it was back to Beijing, where Craig served as the Senior Commercial Officer. In Beijing, Craig was promoted to the Minister Counselor rank of the Senior Foreign Service.
After a four-year tour in South Africa, Craig became Deputy Assistant Secretary for Asia at the US Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. He later became Deputy Assistant Secretary for China. Craig was sworn in as the United States ambassador to Brunei Darussalam on December 19, 2014. He served there until July 2018, when he transitioned to President of the US-China Business Council.
Craig received a B.A. from the University of Michigan in Political Science and Asian Studies in 1979. He received a Master of Science in Foreign Service from Georgetown University in 1985.
On today Show we Talk about:
We Talk About
What is the extent of high-tech relations between US and China?
What steps are China taking to advance Chinese innovation?
How does the China’s 2017 Intelligence Law, have an impact on technology transfer?
How has the Biden and Trump approach to China relationships been similar and how have they been different?
Connect with Craig
https://www.uschina.org/
Craig Allen callen@uschina.org
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Liesel lives for helping people. She founded The Mentoring Club, Inc. to provide a mentoring community for aspiring as well as seasoned leaders in the workforce. By establishing a global platform, the Mentoring Club has the bold intent of changing the world, one leader at a time by providing a mentor for anyone who needs a mentor anywhere in the world. The community has over 150 mentors and mentees from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, United Kingdom, Ireland, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic, Ukraine, Zimbabwe, India, Saudi Arabia, China, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia.
On today Show we Talk about:
What skills are most entrepreneurs lacking or asking for help with?
Do any Mentors or mentees suffer from imposter syndrome? How real is that?
What advice do you have for new graduates to get experience to find a job?
How do you know when something is scalable?
Connect with Liesel
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/liesel-mendoza-232868/
Email liesel@thementoringclub.org
Website thementoringclub.org
Steve Barnett
Technical specialist (Ph.D.) with extensive sales and marketing experience in a broad array of optical sensor technologies.
Experienced with applications in pharmaceutical/biotech, aerospace, homeland security, materials science, forensic science, polymer, and petrochemical industries.
Managed global relationship with multinational corporation - formed sales and support structure for operations in 35 countries.
Chair of Northern California Section, Society for Applied Spectroscopy.
Member of Society for Applied Spectroscopy, American Chemical Society, American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Society for the Advancement of Materials Processing and Engineering.
Specialties: Optical sensors from the UV to the far-IR. FTIR spectroscopy, microscopy, and imaging; Raman spectroscopy and imaging; near-IR, UV-Vis, and fluorescence spectroscopies.
On today Show we Talk about:
If a startup was looking to get government contracts, or sell their product to the public sector, what is the best way to go about that?
How does one decide on what problem or challenge to tackle next?
What is currently happening with the capital of California and their Tech scene?
Connect with Steve
Email steve.barnett@barnett-technical.com
Linkedin linkedin.com/in/stevenmbarnett1
Website https://barnett-technical.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Joe helps business owners make more money and have more time. He has 3 decades of Accomplish-laden experience and has helped over 2000 companies worldwide to improve their lives and businesses.
He has a B.S. in Engineering, M.B.A. in Marketing, Certified Business Coach, Certified Executive Coach, Best Selling Author, Speaker and NLP Practitioner
He sees abundance everywhere, comes from a place of generosity of spirit and channels that energy helping his clients to thrive.
On today Show we Talk about:
What is the Ultimate Business Framework?
As your team grows, who should be the first hires?
What areas of financials do people get in the biggest problems?
How does one prepare a business for an exit event or to take on outside capital?
Connect with Joe
408 899 6737
joe@joskiinternational.com
brainsharecoach.com
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joesiecinski/
Dr. Shiva Kintali is the Founder & CEO of EulerChain, True Dat Inc. Before starting True Dat Inc, he taught in the Computer Science department, Princeton University for four years.
He is a frequent public speaker on AI, Blockchain, Cryptography and Game theory and their socio-economic and cultural impact.
His (academic and industry, theoretical and practical) experience spans algorithm design, complexity theory, cryptography, machine learning, blockchain protocols, algorithmic game theory, structural graph theory, natural language processing, information retrieval, high-performance computing, compiler design and large-scale graph algorithms. He is researching Blockchain protocols (scalability, stability and privacy) since 2012.
He received his PhD in Computer Science from Georgia Institute of Technology, Masters in Computer Science from University of Southern California and B-Tech in Computer Science and Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur.
On today Show we Talk about:
What is the social media censorship problem?
What is decentralize identity and why is it important?
How is AI being used to divide people on their viewpoints?
Connect with Shiva
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kintali/
https://freebits.app/shiva/
Freebits https://freebits.app/
Jeep Kline who it the first Thailand Venture Capitalist, her experiences include creating a startup, taking a leadership role in technology companies, and managing Big Data at The World Bank (and teaching at Hass school of business at Berkeley. She enjoys applying strategies and analytics to solve difficult problems and create meaningful impacts.
On today Show we Talk about:
If the US started to have inflation issues how would that impact VC funds?
What is the due diligence process in Latin America like?
How are Venture Capital opportunities in South East Asia countries?
Connect with Jeep
- Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeepkline/
- Clubhouse @jeepkline
- Twitter @jeep_kline
- Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jeepkline
Show notes for Almaz
In 2010, Almaz founded the African Diaspora Network (ADN) to inform and engage Africans in the diaspora and facilitate direct collaboration with social entrepreneurs, innovators and business leaders to invest and improve the lives of everyone on the continent. Under her leadership and vision, ADN is now the home of The African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS), the Builders of Africa's Future (BAF), and Impact & Innovation Speaker Series. Currently, she is pursuing the development of Africa Impact Investment Fund to provide capital to those working to better the lives of people in Africa through entrepreneurship and innovation.
On today Show we Talk about:
What is the African Diaspora Network (ADN) mission?
What resources are African founded startups needing?
What are some of the positives and negatives of remittances?
How does one recruit an amazing board?
Connect with Almaz
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/almaznegash/
Website https://africandiasporanetwork.org/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Chris is passionate about startups, sports, FinTech (specifically payments), and financial literacy. He believes that you can get anywhere you want in this world as long as you work your butt off and never stop learning.
"Everything around you, that you call life, was made up by people that are no smarter than you. You can influence it, you can change it." - Steve Jobs https://youtu.be/kYfNvmF0Bqw?t=12
We talk about
What is Fintech and what role does Financial Literacy play in the sports world?
What is the Step-by-Step Payment process system?
How can startups collaborate with one another to succeed?
Connect with Chris
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-j-kane/
Website https://chekspend.com
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Steve Hoffman, or Captain Hoff as he’s called in Silicon Valley, is the Chairman & CEO of Founders Space, one of the world’s leading startup accelerators. He’s also a venture investor, serial entrepreneur, and author of several award-winning books. These include “Make Elephants Fly” (published by Hachette), “Surviving a Startup” (published by HarperCollins), and "The Five Forces" (published by BenBella).
On today Show we Talk about:
What are possible repercussions of taking friends and family money?
When do patents matter?
How do you know the commitment level of your co-founder, are they 100% in?
When is it time to quit your startup?
Connect with Steve
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/foundersspace/
Founder Space https://www.foundersspace.com/
Book Surviving a Startup Amazon.com: Surviving a Startup: Practical Strategies for Starting a Business, Overcoming Obstacles, and Coming Out on Top (9781400223190): Hoffman, Steven S.: Books
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Mark Wilser
As Co-Founder of Global Capital Markets, Mark Wilser is a 25 year veteran investment banker with a proven track record of maximizing shareholder value through M&A and Corporate Finance transactions.
Specialties: Sell-side M&A (involving both strategic buyers and private equity), growth capital (debt and equity), and management buyouts.
On today Show we Talk about:
What is the process for an M&A deal, what are all the steps that are involved?
What are some red flags in deals in a deal?
How do bankers get paid? What is a normal fee structure?
Connect with Mark
Website https://www.globalcapitalmarkets.com/
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/markwilser/
Email mw@globalcapitalmarkets.com
Phone (949) 252-4600 x 225
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Vanessa Russells Bio
Love Never Fails is committed to the restoration, education and protection of young people who are at risk of or currently being sexually exploited in California. Since inception they have educated thousands on this issue, trained over 100 Mentors for Positive Change”, launched an elementary, middle and high school abuse prevention program and located over 100 missing and exploited women and children and provided young people with sustainable jobs in IT, real estate, banking, health care etc They are a state certified CyberSecurity Pre-apprenticeship program, Cisco Networking academy, CalJOBs trainer and Department of Rehab vendor.
On today Show we Talk about:
What are the responsibilities of the app stores to sensor or block apps targeting children?
How is cryptocurrency playing a part in Human trafficking?
Can technology be used to help find missing children?
Connect with Vanessa
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessarussell10/
Website
https://www.loveneverfailsus.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Nick Started Founders Live in Seattle, WA in 2016.
In addition to creating the global entrepreneur network Founders Live, Nick stays busy as an advisor to numerous startups and occasionally takes positions in sales or biz dev roles if needed. Previously he founded the mobile payment startup Seconds as well as helping start Coinme, a company built around expanding bitcoin and digital transactions into the physical realm via Bitcoin ATM’s. As a sought-after adviser, entrepreneurial speaker and writer with guest appearances on popular technology and media outlets, Nick enjoys helping others discover their unique entrepreneurial path.
On today Show we Talk about:
Why does your events do 99 second pitches?
Will accelerators still have a place post Covid?
What are the needs of starts based where they are located geographically?
Where are the gaps in the existing startup community infrastructure?
Connect with Nick
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jnickhughes/
Websites
Founders Live https://www.founderslive.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Chukky Okobi earned a Super Bowl ring with the Steelers against the Seattle Seahawks. He has also been a member of the Arizona Cardinals and Houston Texans. Chukky currently is a Master Practitioner in Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP). With his brand, Basic Instructions, he helps executives, athletes and others to access the resources within themselves to achieve the life experience they desire.
We Talk About
How important is mindset in terms of success when playing in the Superbowl and as a founder of a company?
Where do startup founders, have the biggest problems?
How to reprogram your mind for success...How to have a Super Bowl winning mindset?
Connect with Chukky
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chukkybasics/
https://www.basicinstructions.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Dr. Nikolaos Dimitriadis (MBA, PhD) has been applying neuroscience in business and education for over fifteen years. He is an award-winning communications professional, educator and consultant. He is the author of the books “Neuroscience for Leaders: A Brain Adaptive Leadership Approach” (now in its 2nd edition) and “Advanced Marketing Management: Principles, Skills, and Tools
On today Show we Talk about:
How is Artificial Intelligence impacting marketing?
Why don’t people like to talk to or trust CMO’s and what is a NeuroMarketer?
How can we train our brains to act?
What have been the major milestones in the field of neuroscience?
Connect with Dr. Nikolaso
Websites
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikolaosdimitriadis/
Email ndimitriadis75@gmail.com
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nikos.dimitriadis.3150
Books Neuroscience for Leaders
Advance Marketing Management
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
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- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
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Waikit Lau has founded 2 machine learning-based companies that were acquired and he helped take one public. He has been on both VC and founding/operating side.
Tim Alison is an entrepreneur who has started and scaled four businesses. At the age of 31 Tim walked away from one of the highest paying sales jobs in the country, moved to a tiny fishing village in Nova Scotia Canada, and started an educational software company. The naysayers laughed. They stopped laughing when his sales topped $10 million.
Rich Razgaitis has been passionate about building brands and teams. Since 2002, he has served in CEO/president-level roles in several venture capital backed start-ups, privately held turnaround and growth companies, and he brings insight from those experiences to his work today at FloWater.
Raz was the CEO of several consumer-tech companies, including DealOn, an e-commerce company that developed the Web’s first deal-commerce exchange, and another, MyTownPerks, which built the first PCI-complaint, cloud-based loyalty program for B2B. (Both companies were subsequently acquired.)
Steve Hoffman. Steve, or Captain Hoff as he’s called in Silicon Valley, is the CEO of Founders Space, one of the world’s leading incubators and accelerators. He’s also an angel investor, limited partner at August Capital, serial entrepreneur, and author of Make Elephants Fly, the award-winning book on radical innovation.
Always innovating on his life, Captain Hoff has tried more professions than cats have lives, including serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, angel investor, studio head, computer engineer, filmmaker, Hollywood TV exec, published author, coder, game designer, manga rewriter, animator and voice actor.
Hoffman was the Founder and Chairman of the Producers Guild Silicon Valley Chapter, Board of Governors of the New Media Council, and founding member of the Academy of Television’s Interactive Media Group.
What does the future hold for technology? What is happening today that we should know about for tomorrow? We take highlights from past interviews with Shmuel Silverman, Jonathan Trent, Peter Fiekowsky, and Tim Bigwood and share them in this weeks episodes
Shmuel Silverman.
Shmuel is an inventor with over 145 patents & provisional publications and success with co-founding and selling two companies. He bring years of leadership experience in Telecommunications, Internet technologies, IoT, and Artificial Intelligence and have led technology teams of researchers, developers, and marketers at two global icons, where he helped develop a proven process to identify, nurture and develop unique Intellectual Property focused on protecting the business first and enabling technology second. He is a trusted advisor to attorneys, M & A specialists, and entrepreneurial CEOs around the world.
Jonathan Trent.
His 20-year stint at NASA as a Senior Research Scientist has included research in marine science, microbiology and cell biology, medicine, nanotechnology, engineering, and environmental sciences. After doing 7 TED talks about his career in science, he is now leaving NASA to form his own startup which will pivot from the offshore system to an onshore design that he is calling UpCycle Systems. It will be the only patented technology that accepts wet waste as is, without initial treatment, and then converts it to renewable assets, clean water, steam, electricity, gas and minerals.
Tim Bigwood,
Is the acting CEO of Noregon Systems. Noregon is a company that are the experts at acquiring, analyzing, and interpreting vehicle data. Their products include in-shop diagnostic and repair tools and real-time fleet asset-management solutions that give assistance in capturing and transforming your own vehicle data into actionable information.
Peter Fiekowsky
Peter is an MIT-trained physicist and entrepreneur who is committed to leaving behind a world he is proud of. Peter’s passion for that goal drives his leadership in multiple climate initiatives, including volunteering for the Citizens’ Climate Lobby and founding the Climate Restoration Alliance (CRA). He is also founder and president of Automated Visual Inspection (AVI) LLC and a board member of Zynergy Capital Inc. He holds 27 patents.
Jenny Huang has 20 years of experience as a strategic marketing consultant, a brand marketer and communicator in the hardware, software, mobile app, and telecommunications industries, serving start ups and progressive companies. She has worked with Fortune 500 companies such as Intel, Intuit and British Telecom, where she launched and managed regional co-branded programs with PC OEM partners, their retailers and resellers; invigorated new user acquisition to drive growth, and established regional brand presence.
Mark Brinkerhoff is the president of Fusion Design which is a full-service product development company located in Silicon Valley. Founded in 1990, they have worked with a variety of clients from small companies to fortune 100 corporations with engineering services.
Mark’s specialties include: Product Development Consulting, Turnkey Solutions, Industrial Design, Mechanical Packaging and Mechanism Design, Finite Element Analysis, Thermal Analysis
Brett Sharenow
Trusted advisor on raising capital from VCs, PE, and Angel investors, for start-up, growth, pivot, and exit. Since 1995 he has helped companies raise more than $750 million and have facilitated exits valued at more than $6 billion.
Some of Brett’s client companies:
Venture and Private Equity Backed • Verio (acq. by NTT) • Viator (acq. by Trip Advisor) • Dial Page/Dial Call (acq. by Nextel) • Switch Lighting • Vistard • VirtualLan • Ethernetworks • GroWiseBeWell Academy • Puronyx • Skylights • Husk Power Systems • Yonder
Scott Orns runs Operations at Kruze Consulting, a fast-growing Startup CFO Consulting firm that works with over 160 startup clients. Kruze is based in San Francisco with clients in the Bay Area, Los Angeles and New York. In addition to his Operations responsibilities, Scott runs the Venture Debt Consulting practice at Kruze.
Paul Kallmes is an independent technology professional with a focus on foreign start-ups coming to the US, with a specialty in the strategic management of intellectual property. His nearly 20 years of IP and technology licensing and management have given him a broad base in the nuance and complexities of developing and deploying intangible assets to the benefit of IP owners and users alike. He has extensive experience in various industries in IP management and manufacturing. He has extensive international experience working with companies in the US, Europe and Asia on patent portfolio development, market entry strategies, product development and roll-out, and early-stage fund-raising activities. Intangible assets and intellectual property are becoming ever more important in today's economy, and every company in a technology space needs to take their IP issues seriously or risk being left behind by their competitors. His current focus on assisting start-ups from various European and Asian countries allows him to see a wide range of opportunities that will make positive contributions to various markets in the US and around the world.
Sam Floy
After living in East Africa for 3+ years he is now based in Copenhagen where he runs a business setting up and running podcasts for companies around the world.
While in East Africa he started the The East Africa Business Podcast which is a podcast about the business environment in East Africa based around interviews with entrepreneurs, investors and organizations looking to help the region grow.
Tehlma Ekiyor is an Impact Investor, Development Expert, Social Entrepreneur, Fundraising Expert, Senior Public Sector Project Advisor.
Implemented projects in 22 African countries
Served as Senior Consultant to the Africa Union, ECA, IGAD, ECOWAS
Co-founded SME.NG - Nigeria's impact investment platform for women.
pioneered the establishment of national and international non-profit and philanthropic organizations
Passionate about equipping women to participate in decision making - co-founded women's organizations.
Nichole Yembra. Nichole is the Founder and Managing Director of The Chrysalis Co which houses The Chrysalis Capital, a new $15M Africa and Diaspora early stage tech fund and The Chrysalis Advisors, a strategy and investment advisory firm.
In addition to this work, Nichole is deeply committed to making gender diversity a priority within the financial-technology 'fintech' space in Nigeria and enhancing opportunities for women in leadership. She founded the Garden Women's Network, a group dedicated to the development and retention of high-performing women in the Nigerian tech ecosystem.
Now on this week's episode, we go back and we revisit some past episodes, where some of our guests gave us some life changing advice. When I first heard this, it moved me when I heard it again, it impacted me even more. Now, some other information for everyone out there, we're redoing a lot. We're redoing some of the branding, the website and that for the podcast, and we're gonna have some big announcements moving forward in this coming month. So stay tuned. But right now, let's start the episode. All right, enjoy
Roger King
Roger King founded BayAngels which is dedicated to promoting the entrepreneurial spirit by assisting early-stage technology companies with capital, connections, and board-level advice. Examples of our portfolio companies include Pree Media, CashBet, Trpz, Sea of Change Trading Co.,
CEO of Chiefpeople 20 years’ experience in recruiting at both the executive level and the individual contributor level. Interested in companies with hiring needs. Offering extremely cost-effective solutions. Clients include SoftBank Robotics, Jiff, Gracenote, OpenTable, Manage, Grid Dynamics, and Navera.
Max Shapiro
Max Shapiro Founded PeopleConnect in 2000 to help early-stage high-tech companies find the talent they need to succeed. Their clients are in technology, biotech, cleantech, apps, services, medical devices, and consumer products.
He is also involved in areas that also support the startup community:
● Angel Investor and member of Keiretsu Forum since 2001 ● Co-founder of Runway Innovation Hub ● Creator & Producer of PitchForce PitchForce is a weekly pitch event for early stage companies with a panel of establish angel investors and CEO's
Steve Hoffman
Steve Hoffman, or Captain Hoff as he’s called in Silicon Valley. Steve is the CEO of Founders Space, one of the world’s leading incubators and accelerators. He’s also an angel investor, limited partner at August Capital, serial entrepreneur, and author of Make Elephants Fly, the award-winning book on radical innovation.
Always innovating on his life, Captain Hoff has tried more professions than cats have lives, including serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, angel investor, studio head, computer engineer, filmmaker, Hollywood TV exec, published author, coder, game designer, manga rewriter, animator and voice actor.
Steve was the Founder and Chairman of the Producers Guild Silicon Valley Chapter, Board of Governors of the New Media Council, and founding member of the Academy of Television’s Interactive Media Group.
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
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- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
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Sam is a CEO coach, interim CEO/CTO/CFO, a Silicon Valley advisor and the author of 21 Secrets of Successful Startups, a book about world-class execution for startups. As a serial entrepreneur, he has been CEO, CTO, or VP Engineering / TechOps for five companies, driving multiple acquisitions. As a hands-on “roll up the sleeves” startup advisor, Sam draws from his 30+ years of successes and failures to train and help entrepreneurs with execution, fundability, fundraising, strategy, product/market fit, product management, finance, operations, legal, talent development and founder wellness.
Elnaz Sarraf, who is a serial entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in technology, business, sales, and marketing. She is currently the CEO and Founder of ROYBI; an investor backed EdTech company focusing on early childhood education, that recently raised $4.2 million in its seed round. Before starting ROYBI, Elnaz co-founded and led a consumer electronics/IoT company, iBaby, serving as the company's President.
As an immigrant and female founder, Elnaz has made worthy accomplishments in a short duration living in the US. Honors include being selected as Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center Milestone Maker 2018, named the Woman of Influence through Silicon Valley Business Journal in 2016 and Entrepreneur of The Year in 2016 in Silicon Valley. She has been a speaker at several conferences such as the Mobile World Congress, ASU GSV Summit, Consumer Technology Association, and more.
Sandra Shpilberg is the Founder and CEO of Adnexi, a disease intelligence platform for the next generation of biopharma treatments.
Prior to this, Sandra was the Founder and CEO of Seeker Health, a breakthrough digital patient finding platform, which accelerates drug development and commercialization for biopharmaceutical companies. Seeker Health was acquired by EVERSANA in September 2018.
She’s the author of New Startup Mindset, a book on her non-traditional founder’s journey and lessons learned starting, building and exiting this company.
She’s a featured contributor at Thrive Global, InsightTimer and Hackernoon.
Daniel Edwards is currently the CEO and Chairman of Transactive, a international financial technology company that provides payment infrastructure software and payment services globally. Under Daniel’s leadership Transactive has successfully launched its software, services over thousand customers, done over $1bn in payments and achieved profitability. Previously Daniel was the Vice President of Finance and Operations at Mobile Gaming Technologies. Mobile Gaming Technologies was the world’s first crypto iGaming platform. Under his leadership Mobile Gaming Technologies became venture backed, scaled international and achieved profitability. He also lead Mobile Gaming Technologies through several successful capital raises, raising over $40m for the company. MGT became the first blockchain company in the world to sponsor a major league sports team, Arsenal Football Club from London. Eventually the MGT sold the company to Novomatic, the largest privately held gaming company in the world with over 5bn in revenue per year. Prior to joining Mobile Gaming Technologies, Daniel worked as an Investment Banker at Financial Technology Partners, D.A. Davidson and Wells Fargo / Wachovia. He advised technology companies on mergers and acquisitions, capital raising and strategic corporate development. He has successfully closed over 15 M&A and capital raise transactions. Daniel is also a board member of several technology companies spanning from London to Silicon Valley. He is a financial technology enthusiast and speaks at conferences all around the world about financial technology, blockchain and cryptocurrency. Daniel graduated with a B.S. in Finance & minor in Chemistry from Oregon State University.
This week we look back at some of the highlights of past interviews with some of the biggest Venture Capitalist that have been on the show
SC Moatti is a technology visionary and investor.
She is the founding partner of Mighty Capital, a Silicon Valley venture capital firm, and Products That Count, one of the largest and certainly the most influential network of product managers in the world.
Ravi Belani
He is the Managing Director of the Alchemist Accelerator which is a venture-backed initiative focused on accelerating startups whose revenue comes from enterprises (not consumers). The accelerator backs teams with distinctive technical founders. He is also a Lecturer, Fenwick & West Educator of Entrepreneurship at Stanford University where for the past 8 yrs he co-teaches The Spirit of Entrepreneurship, an undergrad/grad survey course on entrepreneurship
Nick Moran is the General Partner at New Stack Ventures. Prior to New Stack, Nick worked for Danaher (NYSE: DHR). After a few years in M&A, Nick led breakthrough innovation, developing one of the most successful products in the company's history -- an IoT solution w/ a novel method for testing compounds in drinking water. In addition to investing, Nick founded the 1st Venture Capital podcast, The Full Ratchet.
Aman Johar, Proteum Capital
Over the last 12 years, Aman has worked with a variety of startups and has been on both sides of the entrepreneur-investor table. With a background in strategy, operations, and deal-making, Aman focusses on blockchain applications and the supporting ecosystem including expertise in the business and regulatory implications of tokenizing assets. He is a strategic advisor to executives and boards on creating new business models for fintech, media and entertainment, and identity management to name a few recent engagements. Currently, Aman is a mentor at the Singularity University and a board member at KeraCel, a solid-state battery company. Previously, Aman co-founded Applied Protein which was acquired by Pivot Pharma. He holds a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, BHU and an MBA from the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon where he was named a Swartz Fellow for entrepreneurship. In his spare time, Aman enjoys teaching photography to his kids.
Waikit Lau has founded 2 machine learning-based companies that were acquired and he helped take one public. He has been on both VC and founding/operating side.
We Talk About
What was it like to go to Harvard Business School?
How should one think of Business school in general?
How was the journey from starting a company to growing it to over 600 people before taking it public?
What is your screening process to investing in deals?
Connect with Waikit
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/waikit-lau-89129/
Website https://www.remotehq.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Daniel is currently the CEO and Chairman of Transactive, a international financial technology company that provides payment infrastructure software and payment services globally. Under Daniel’s leadership Transactive has successfully launched its software, services over thousand customers, done over $1bn in payments and achieved profitability. Previously Daniel was the Vice President of Finance and Operations at Mobile Gaming Technologies. Mobile Gaming Technologies was the world’s first crypto iGaming platform. Under his leadership Mobile Gaming Technologies became venture backed, scaled international and achieved profitability. He also lead Mobile Gaming Technologies through several successful capital raises, raising over $40m for the company. MGT became the first blockchain company in the world to sponsor a major league sports team, Arsenal Football Club from London. Eventually the MGT sold the company to Novomatic, the largest privately held gaming company in the world with over 5bn in revenue per year. Prior to joining Mobile Gaming Technologies, Daniel worked as an Investment Banker at Financial Technology Partners, D.A. Davidson and Wells Fargo / Wachovia. He advised technology companies on mergers and acquisitions, capital raising and strategic corporate development. He has successfully closed over 15 M&A and capital raise transactions. Daniel is also a board member of several technology companies spanning from London to Silicon Valley. He is a financial technology enthusiast and speaks at conferences all around the world about financial technology, blockchain and cryptocurrency. Daniel graduated with a B.S. in Finance & minor in Chemistry from Oregon State University.
In his free time Daniel likes to run, hike and go to the gym. He is also an active reader, trying to read at least 4 books a month.
We talk about
Why did you decide to leave Investment banking and do a startup?
What was it like being the first Blockchain company to sponsor a major Soccer/ football team?
What will be the big breakthroughs in Fin tech in the coming years?
Connect with Daniel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwe/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
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- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
From college dropout to acclaimed designer to CEO of project-management pioneer Flow, Daniel Scrivner’s path to success has been anything but typical — and he wouldn’t have it any other way. It only took one web design class over a summer break in high school, and Daniel was hooked. He would eventually drop out of college to focus on mastering the art and science of design, first honing his talent as a freelancer, then joining an LA-based advertising firm in 2007. Barely a year later, he relocated to San Francisco to take a coveted design position at Apple. After three years of soaking up every bit of insight and wisdom he could, Daniel left Apple and joined the team at a small but promising startup: Square. He quickly worked his way up to Director of Design, responsible for overseeing everything from product design to video production. In his time at the company, he left his fingerprint on almost every aspect of Square's design aesthetic. Daniel left Square in 2016 to found his own design counsel and venture capital firm, Blackletter Ventures. Then, in February 2019, he took over as CEO of Flow. He’s spent the last year slowly, methodically, and tirelessly reinventing their product from scratch. Under his leadership, the business is back to profitability and growth — and he’s just getting started.
We Talk About
As a new angel, how does one get access to early stage deals?
Bay Area to Colorado, why make the move?
What are the next steps you plan on taking with Flow?
Connect with Daniel
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielscrivner/
Flow Website https://www.getflow.com/?utm-source=linkedin
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
From college dropout to acclaimed designer to CEO of project-management pioneer Flow, Daniel Scrivner’s path to success has been anything but typical — and he wouldn’t have it any other way. It only took one web design class over a summer break in high school, and Daniel was hooked. He would eventually drop out of college to focus on mastering the art and science of design, first honing his talent as a freelancer, then joining an LA-based advertising firm in 2007. Barely a year later, he relocated to San Francisco to take a coveted design position at Apple. After three years of soaking up every bit of insight and wisdom he could, Daniel left Apple and joined the team at a small but promising startup: Square. He quickly worked his way up to Director of Design, responsible for overseeing everything from product design to video production. In his time at the company, he left his fingerprint on almost every aspect of Square's design aesthetic. Daniel left Square in 2016 to found his own design counsel and venture capital firm, Blackletter Ventures. Then, in February 2019, he took over as CEO of Flow. He’s spent the last year slowly, methodically, and tirelessly reinventing their product from scratch. Under his leadership, the business is back to profitability and growth — and he’s just getting started.
We Talk About
Why is there such a high turnover at startups?
What was it like before and after square went public?
What it like to switch from working at a startup to being an investor in 100 plus startups?
Connect with Daniel
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielscrivner/
Flow Website https://www.getflow.com/?utm-source=linkedin
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
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- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Axel Schultze started and successfully exited 4 companies, the biggest reaching $5 Billion in revenue, the second close to $1 Billion. Axel is a published author, patent holder, 2015 listed in the global 100 most influential startup accelerators, 2008 won the SF Entrepreneur Award, 2006 chaired the SaaS Channel Committee at the SIIA, 2003 early adviser of LinkedIn.
2001 Founder & CEO of Silicon Valley based BlueRoads a partner management software. Initially funded by The Angels Forum, then venture funded by Eldorado Ventures, Cardinal Ventures and Arrow Path. Named most successful channel management company in 2006. Exit in 2007. 1997 Pioneered equity based crowdfunding - Sold it in 2001. 1996 Founder & CEO Infinigate, Leading European IT security provider. Funded through private placement on Webstock. Today over $600 Million in revenue. 1983 Founder & CEO Computer 2000 a $5 Billion high tech distributor. With a highly disruptive business model bypassed 8,000 tech distributors and became the third largest in the world. VC Funded by Deutsche Bank WFG. IPO in 1996. merged with Tech Data at $5 Billion in revenue in 1998.
We Talk About
What questions should one ask themselves or brainstorming should be done before starting a company?
What is the best advice for someone is plans on starting and growing a billion-dollar company with their significant other?
Why does brainstorming to create a billion-dollar idea seem to fail when it is done in a corporate setting, but succeed when it is done by a startup?
Connect with Axel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/axelschultze/
Website
https://bluecallom.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Bob Car was the Founder and CEO of Heatland Payment Systems, one of the largest payment processors in the United States, which he sold in 2016 for over 4 billion dollars. He is now the CEO and Chairman of the Board for Beyond Inc. which strives to simplify operations, reduce costs and streamline payments for owners of small and mid-size businesses across the country.
We talk about
What’s it like to sell a company for over 4 billion dollars?
How did the CEO impact on individual employees change as the company grew from 10, 100, 1000 employees?
How should one think about life, and what they do?
Connect with Bob Carr
Website https://www.getbeyond.com/
https://www.giveback.ngo/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
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- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
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Paul Kallmes is an independent technology professional with a focus on foreign start-ups coming to the US, with a specialty in the strategic management of intellectual property. His nearly 20 years of IP and technology licensing and management have given him a broad base in the nuance and complexities of developing and deploying intangible assets to the benefit of IP owners and users alike. He has extensive experience in various industries in IP management and manufacturing. He has extensive international experience working with companies in the US, Europe and Asia on patent portfolio development, market entry strategies, product development and roll-out, and early-stage fund-raising activities. Intangible assets and intellectual property are becoming ever more important in today's economy, and every company in a technology space needs to take their IP issues seriously or risk being left behind by their competitors. His current focus on assisting start-ups from various European and Asian countries allows him to see a wide range of opportunities that will make positive contributions to various markets in the US and around the world.
We Talk About
How should an outsider go about building a network in Africa?
What have been some of the pit falls of Western money entering the African ecosystem?
Accelerators and Incubators in Africa, how do they compare with those in Silicon Valley?
Connect with Paul
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kallmes-8a0376/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Max Shapiro Founded PeopleConnect in 2000 to help early-stage high-tech companies find the talent they need to succeed. Their clients are in technology, biotech, cleantech, apps, services, medical devices, and consumer products.
He is also involved in areas that also support the startup community:
● Angel Investor and member of Keiretsu Forum since 2001 ● Co-founder of Runway Innovation Hub ● Creator & Producer of PitchForce PitchForce is a weekly pitch event for early stage companies with a panel of establish angel investors and CEO's
On today Show we Talk about
How should a startup prepare themselves for a pitch event?
How should an investor or a startup follow-up any contacts that they made at a pitch event?
How much equity should be given to a new hire at a startup?
Connect with Max
Email max@peopleconnectstaffing.com
Company peopleconnectstaffing.com
Linkedin linkedin.com/in/maxshapiro
Twitter PeopleConnectS
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Sandra Shpilberg is the Founder and CEO of Adnexi, a disease intelligence platform for the next generation of biopharma treatments.
Prior to this, Sandra was the Founder and CEO of Seeker Health, a breakthrough digital patient finding platform, which accelerates drug development and commercialization for biopharmaceutical companies. Seeker Health was acquired by EVERSANA in September 2018.
She’s the author of New Startup Mindset, a book on her non-traditional founder’s journey and lessons learned starting, building and exiting this company.
She’s a featured contributor at Thrive Global, InsightTimer and Hackernoon.
On today Show we Talk about
What question should a founder or founder team should ask themselves about a company before starting it?
How important is positioning one’s company?
The temptation to take venture funding and the positives and the negatives of going down that path?
Connect with Sandra Shpilberg
adnexi.com sandrashpilberg.com
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-shpilberg-b7b334/
Website https://www.sandrashpilberg.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Sam is a CEO coach, interim CEO/CTO/CFO, a Silicon Valley advisor and the author of 21 Secrets of Successful Startups, a book about world-class execution for startups. As a serial entrepreneur, he has been CEO, CTO, or VP Engineering / TechOps for five companies, driving multiple acquisitions. As a hands-on “roll up the sleeves” startup advisor, Sam draws from his 30+ years of successes and failures to train and help entrepreneurs with execution, fundability, fundraising, strategy, product/market fit, product management, finance, operations, legal, talent development and founder wellness.
We Talk About
When a company is just starting out, how does it plan what it is going to execute, or how should it plan its execution and are there normally problems with this?
When a company is acquired how should an employee negotiate his new role and benefits with the acquiring company, or does even have that option?
What is the meaning of “A founder wellness is under-appreciated.”
Connect with Sam Wong
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-wong-startup/
Website https://www.fundablestartups.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
After living in East Africa for 3+ years he is now based in Copenhagen where he runs a business setting up and running podcasts for companies around the world.
While in East Africa he started the The East Africa Business Podcast which is a podcast about the business environment in East Africa based around interviews with entrepreneurs, investors and organizations looking to help the region grow.
We Talk About
What are some of the challenges that Entrepreneurs face in Kenya?
If a Westerner were to move to Africa to start a business. What does that person need to know to be successful?
Where are the opportunities in Africa in both the countries and tech in the next 5 years?
Connect with Sam
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/samfloy/
Email sam@samfloy.com
Website https://theeastafricabusinesspodcast.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Helen Pastorino has more than 40 years of experience in transforming the real estate industry via technology. She co-founded Alain Pinel Realtors, one of the San Francisco Bay Area's most prestigious real estate companies, driving billions of dollars of annual sales. Today, she is founder and CEO of Pertria, a real estate sales, investment, and property management firm that guides clients in creating investment strategies that generate income, benefit from real estate appreciation, and achieve capital gains objectives. Helen concurrently serves as interim President and Board member of Startup Sandbox, a bioscience incubator in Santa Cruz, CA. Startup Sandbox incubates biotechnology entrepreneurs as they translate basic and applied research into commercially successful businesses. With wide-ranging interests, Helen serves as CEO of the World Tomato Society, growing the organization as a global community with one of the world's largest tomato databases and almost one million members.
On today Show we Talk about:
What was it like to meet and work with Steve Jobs?
How does one implement technology in a company?
What is it like to be on the bleeding edge of technology?
What does the real estate market look like post Covid?
What is the true legacy of a CEO?
Connect with Helen
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenpastorino/
Websites
World Tomato Society https://www.worldtomatosociety.com/
Pertria https://pertria.com/
Startup Sandbox https://www.startupsandbox.org/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Jenny Huang has 20 years of experience as a strategic marketing consultant, a brand marketer and communicator in the hardware, software, mobile app, and telecommunications industries, serving start ups and progressive companies. She has worked with Fortune 500 companies such as Intel, Intuit and British Telecom, where she launched and managed regional co-branded programs with PC OEM partners, their retailers and resellers; invigorated new user acquisition to drive growth, and established regional brand presence.
On todays show we talk about:
How do you see marketing and promotion for companies changing with technology?
If a company wanted to be interviewed for an article or get exposure, what are some of the best ways to go about doing it?
The process for creating and implementing a social media calendar.
With marketing and PR, what really excites you for 2021?
Connect with Jenny
Website jennyhuangmarketing.com
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennychuang/
Email jenny@jennyhuangmarketing.com
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
David Bates is a senior corporate and commercial lawyer, recommended in Legal 500, with over 20 years’ experience of advising on domestic and international mergers and acquisitions, private equity and venture capital transactions and complex commercial arrangements across a variety of sectors with a particular focus on the tech sector.
Experience also includes time spent on secondment to the inhouse legal teams of major corporate clients.
We Talk About:
When a startup from the US wants to expand into Europe, what is the process?
How does a company analyze the market to decide where in Europe to setup their operations?
What types of exits are companies looking for or what is the current state of the investment environment like in Europe?
Connect with David
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/dbates2/
Website https://www.taylorwessing.com/en/search?term=david+bates
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
-
Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
-
Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Mark Brinkerhoff is the president of Fusion Design which is a full-service product development company located in Silicon Valley. Founded in 1990, they have worked with a variety of clients from small companies to fortune 100 corporations with engineering services.
Mark’s specialties include: Product Development Consulting, Turnkey Solutions, Industrial Design, Mechanical Packaging and Mechanism Design, Finite Element Analysis, Thermal Analysis
We talk about:
What are soft batteries? Elastic Wiring? Limitless Multi-touch Force?
What about 5 g technology, how is that going to play a part in wearables
What is the typical design process when you are building a product?
Find out more about Fusion Design
Website https://www.fusiondesigninc.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
- Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Tim Alison is an entrepreneur who has started and scaled four businesses. At the age of 31 Tim walked away from one of the highest paying sales jobs in the country, moved to a tiny fishing village in Nova Scotia Canada, and started an educational software company. The naysayers laughed. They stopped laughing when his sales topped $10 million.
Profit Whisperer for bricks and mortar businesses where I specialize in helping business owners identify opportunities for improved financial outcomes.
Host and Executive Producer Of The Screw The Naysayers Podcast where I have interviewed and amplified the voices of guests from around the globe including the likes of Jack Canfield, Seth Godin, John Perkins and an eclectic mix of Thought Leaders, WSJ and NYT Best Selling Authors, CEO's,Olympians, Paralympians, Professional Athletes and other women and men who have overcome great adversity. All are seeking to change the world.
We Talk About
What are the basics that someone needs to know when looking at financials?
Price a product, what are some mistakes that people are making and what should they be doing that’s different?
How do you reverse engineer an opportunity, or look at an opportunity to see if it is worth doing or not?
Connect with Tim
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-alison/
Website https://screwthenaysayers.com/podcast/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
-
Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
-
Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Sherri Haskell
After witnessing firsthand, the innovation and eclecticism among cannabis startups Sherri launched CannaAngels LLC: an Angel Investor Consortium focused specifically on businesses within, and supportive of, the cannabis industry. With years of experience as an alternative investment leader she has a solid knowledge of how to vet companies, structure deals, raise capital, and establish trust. As cannabis transitions into the mainstream, her accomplished team is prepared to bring a unique blend of investment intelligence, technical savvy and steadfast integrity to this industry.
We Talk About
What are some of the different verticals of the cannabis industry?
What new laws or regulations are being discussed that will impact cannabis investing and the companies in the industry?
When will we see Wall Street enter the picture?
Where will the money be made in the industry? Where is the hidden value that investors should know about?
Connect with Sherri
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrihaskell/
Canna Angels website https://cannaangelsllc.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
-
Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
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Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Roger King
Founder of BayAngels BayAngels is dedicated to promoting the entrepreneurial spirit by assisting early-stage technology companies with capital, connections, and board-level advice. Examples of our portfolio companies include Pree Media, CashBet, Trpz, Sea of Change Trading Co.,
CEO of Chiefpeople 20 years’ experience in recruiting at both the executive level and the individual contributor level. Interested in companies with hiring needs. Offering extremely cost-effective solutions. Clients include SoftBank Robotics, Jiff, Gracenote, OpenTable, Manage, Grid Dynamics, and Navera.
We Talk About
How has angel investing changed over the past 20 years?
Some suggestions for beginner angel investors?
What problems do startups make when pitching to investors?
Do angel groups talk to each other?
Connect with Roger
Roger@bayangels.com
Bay Angels website http://bayangels.com/ns/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedInAccount
- Silicon Valley LinkedInGroup Account
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Shawn Flynn’s FacebookAccount
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Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
055 Deep Dive into Financial Models with CEO Broadscope Consulting Brett Sharenow pt2
Trusted advisor on raising capital from VCs, PE, and Angel investors, for start-up, growth, pivot, and exit. Since 1995 he has helped companies raise more than $750 million and have facilitated exits valued at more than $6 billion.
Some of Brett’s client companies:
Venture and Private Equity Backed • Verio (acq. by NTT) • Viator (acq. by Trip Advisor) • Dial Page/Dial Call (acq. by Nextel) • Switch Lighting • Vistard • VirtualLan • Ethernetworks • GroWiseBeWell Academy • Puronyx • Skylights • Husk Power Systems • Yonder
Private Companies • King's Hawaiian • Astrology.net (acq. by iVillage) • MagniGyro srl • MarCom International • Putnam Consulting • Strozzi Institute • Skyline International • SensoryScapes • Say it Better Center • Indy Electronics • Generative Somatics
Public Companies • USWestDex • Pacific Bell • Pacific Telesis • BFGoodrich • Fujitsu • Bay Area Cellular Telephone • Olin Corporation • Pacific Bell Mobile Services
This episode we talk about:
- · Once you have the model, how do you use it to forecast how much money you need to raise?
- · What kind of expertise is needed to understand a financial model?
- · Who can build a great financial model for start-up, raising capital, growth, and exit?
- How does the Fundamentals of a Financial Model work?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Learn more about Brett Sharenow
- Email brett@broadscope.com
- Website https://www.broadscope.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Brett Sharenow is a trusted advisor on raising capital from VCs, PE, and Angel investors, for start-up, growth, pivot, and exit. Since 1995 he has helped companies raise more than $750 million and have facilitated exits valued at more than $6 billion.
Some of Brett’s client companies:
Venture and Private Equity Backed • Verio (acq. by NTT) • Viator (acq. by Trip Advisor) • Dial Page/Dial Call (acq. by Nextel) • Switch Lighting • Vistard • VirtualLan • Ethernetworks • GroWiseBeWell Academy • Puronyx • Skylights • Husk Power Systems • Yonder
Private Companies • King's Hawaiian • Astrology.net (acq. by iVillage) • MagniGyro srl • MarCom International • Putnam Consulting • Strozzi Institute • Skyline International • SensoryScapes • Say it Better Center • Indy Electronics • Generative Somatics
Public Companies • USWestDex • Pacific Bell • Pacific Telesis • BFGoodrich • Fujitsu • Bay Area Cellular Telephone • Olin Corporation • Pacific Bell Mobile Services
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Guest:
- Brett Sharenow on LinkedIn
- Email Brett Sharenow
- Website
This episode we talk about:
- How does a founder/CEO know that their strategy will work?
- Should a company’s strategybe influenced by a financial model?
- What are the typical inputs and outputs in a financial model?
- What can a good financial model do for a company?
I want to thank Shmuel Silverman who made the introduction to Brett allowing this interview to happen.
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Tweet your comments about this episode directly to Shawn Flynn and the rest of The Investor’s Podcast Community using #TIPSiliconValley.
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Learn more about Brett Sharenow
Email brett@broadscope.com
Website https://www.broadscope.com/
Connect with Shawn:
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@TheInvestorsPodcast.com
For the Past 30 years Bob Karr has been both an active angel investor as well as in business development founding and growing some of the most powerful networking groups in Silicon Valley. His current company, LinkSV is an online information service providing curated, detailed information about the senior team, board members, key partners, customers, angel, institutional and VC funding on companies in Silicon Valley.
This episode we talk about:
- How can parents encourage their children to become entrepreneurs?
- What is LinkSV?
- How to create a network that leads to being able to access anyone?
- What advice do you have for people on having fun in life?
I would like to thank Brett Sharenow who made the introduction allowing the interview to happen.
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Connect with Bob Karr
- Email bkarr@linksv.com
- LinkSV http://www.linksv.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
For the Past 30 years Bob Karr has been both an active angel investor as well as in business development founding and growing some of the most powerful networking groups in Silicon Valley. His current company, LinkSV is an online information service providing curated, detailed information about the senior team, board members, key partners, customers, angel, institutional and VC funding on companies in Silicon Valley.
This episode we talk about:
- What are some of the usual questions that you ask the entrepreneur?
- Practical advice for entrepreneurs to connect with Angels?
- Have what angel investors looked for in startups changed over the years?
I would like to thank Brett Sharenow who made the introduction allowing the interview to happen.
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Connect with Bob Karr
- Email bkarr@linksv.com
- LinkSV http://www.linksv.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
051 Stanford to Harvard to Managing Partner at Alchemist Accelerator and More with Ravi Belani
Ravi Belani is the Managing Director of the Alchemist Accelerator which is a venture-backed initiative focused on accelerating startups whose revenue comes from enterprises (not consumers). The accelerator backs teams with distinctive technical founders. He is also a Lecturer, Fenwick & West Educator of Entrepreneurship at Stanford University where for the past 8 yrs he co-teaches The Spirit of Entrepreneurship, an undergrad/grad survey course on entrepreneurship
We talk about:
- What were some of the companies Ravi passed on investing in and why?
- How does one advise a company?
- Why teach The Spirit of Entrepreneurship at Sandford University?
- What are the most common questions your students ask you about entrepreneurship?
I would like to thank SC Moatti Managing Partner at Mighty Capital who made the introduction allowing the interview to happen.
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Connect with Ravi Belani
- Website Alchemist Accelerator
- Email ravi@alchemistaccelerator.com
- Twitter @rbelani
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
050 Helping your Portfolio Companies with Managing Partner of Mighty Capital SC Moatti
SC Moatti is a technology visionary and investor.
She is the founding partner of Mighty Capital, a Silicon Valley venture capital firm, and Products That Count, one of the largest and certainly the most influential network of product managers in the world.
Previously, she built products that billions of people use at Facebook, Nokia and Electronic Arts. She also serves on boards of both public and private companies, including mobile technology giant Opera Software (OPERA:Oslo).
An award-winning bestselling author, Moatti frequently gives keynotes on business and technology, and has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, the Harvard Business Review, and on NPR. She lectures at Stanford Graduate School of Business, where she earned her MBA and has a Master of Science in electrical engineering.
Andrew Chen, General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz, called SC “a genius at making mobile products people love.”
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Other than money what value can Venture Capitalists bring to the deal?
- What is considered a good product?
- What are common areas of negotiations between entrepreneurs and Venture Capitalists?
- How is it different for a Venture Capitalists to work with an early stage company verse a later or pre-IPO stage company?
- What are some exciting changes in Tech to look for in the future?
We would also like to thank CJ Terral who made the introduction that allowed the interview to happen.
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Learn more about SC Moatti
- Personal Website com
- Mighty Capital Website
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Tae Hea Nahm is co-founding MD of Storm Ventures, a Silicon Valley VC firm investing in tech start-ups all around the world. He’s also a two-time author. His second book, Survival to Thrival: Change or Be Changed explores how all people in a startup – from the executive team to the CEO and the board – need to change their roles and skills as a company grows.
Bob Tinker is a three-time entrepreneur.
Most recently, he was the founding CEO of MobileIron, which in eight years grew from ‘three people and a whiteboard’ to over $150M in annual revenue, more than 12,000 enterprise customers, and IPO in 2014. MobileIron was named the #1 fastest growing tech company from 2009-2013 by the Deloitte Fast 500. Before than Bob was VP Business Development for wireless pioneer Airespace, which was acquired by Cisco for $450M in 2005.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What are the 5 stages that a company goes through?
- How does one unlock growth in a company?
- What is the difference between the VC and the CEO perspective of the business?
- How can an investor’s portfolio have synergy among the investments?
- Why are Korean startups ripe for investing right now?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Learn more about Tae Hea Nahm and Bob Tinker
Tae Hea Nahm
Bob Tinker
Books Website : http://survivaltothrival.com/
The Company Journey / Change or Be Changed
https://www.stormventures.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Tae Hea Nahm is co-founding MD of Storm Ventures, a Silicon Valley VC firm investing in tech start-ups all around the world. He’s also a two-time author. His second book, Survival to Thrival: Change or Be Changed explores how all people in a startup – from the executive team to the CEO and the board – need to change their roles and skills as a company grows.
Bob Tinker is a three-time entrepreneur.
Most recently, he was the founding CEO of MobileIron, which in eight years grew from ‘three people and a whiteboard’ to over $150M in annual revenue, more than 12,000 enterprise customers, and IPO in 2014. MobileIron was named the #1 fastest growing tech company from 2009-2013 by the Deloitte Fast 500. Before than Bob was VP Business Development for wireless pioneer Airespace, which was acquired by Cisco for $450M in 2005.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What are the 5 stages that a company goes through?
- How does one unlock growth in a company?
- What is the difference between the VC and the CEO perspective of the business?
- How can an investor’s portfolio have synergy among the investments?
- Why are Korean startups ripe for investing right now?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Learn more about Tae Hea Nahm and Bob Tinker
- Tae Hea Nahm
- Bob Tinker
- Books Website : http://survivaltothrival.com/
- The Company Journey / Change or Be Changed
- https://www.stormventures.com/
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Nick Moran is the General Partner at New Stack Ventures. Prior to New Stack, Nick worked for Danaher (NYSE: DHR). After a few years in M&A, Nick led breakthrough innovation, developing one of the most successful products in the company's history -- an IoT solution w/ a novel method for testing compounds in drinking water. In addition to investing, Nick founded the 1st Venture Capital podcast, The Full Ratchet.
This episode we talk about:
- Why join or start an angel syndicate?
- Suggestions for first time Venture Capitalist to connect with Limited Partners
- How can one transition from being an employee to becoming a General Partner at a Venture Capitalist fund?
- How does a new Venture Capitalist build their network within the Venture Community?
- What are some of the disadvantages and advantages of a Venture Capitalist fund being based in Chicago?
- Secrets to getting access to the best Startups as a Venture Capitalist?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Contact Nick Moran
- Website New Stack Ventures
- The Full Ratchet Podcast
- Email Team@newstack.vc
- mailto:nick@newstack.vc
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Aman Johar, Proteum Capital
Over the last 12 years, Aman has worked with a variety of startups and has been on both sides of the entrepreneur-investor table. With a background in strategy, operations, and deal-making, Aman focusses on blockchain applications and the supporting ecosystem including expertise in the business and regulatory implications of tokenizing assets. He is a strategic advisor to executives and boards on creating new business models for fintech, media and entertainment, and identity management to name a few recent engagements. Currently, Aman is a mentor at the Singularity University and a board member at KeraCel, a solid-state battery company. Previously, Aman co-founded Applied Protein which was acquired by Pivot Pharma. He holds a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, BHU and an MBA from the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon where he was named a Swartz Fellow for entrepreneurship. In his spare time, Aman enjoys teaching photography to his kids.
This episode we talk about:
- Why does it seem like it is taking so long for blockchain adoption to take place?
- What is the difference between enterprise blockchain and the blockchain the is used for Crypto like Bitcoin?
- What’s happening with the SEC and Initial Equity Offerings?
- Past and Present regulations and decisions the SEC has made?
I would like to thank Brett Bunnell a corporate attorney focused on Technololgy and Blockchain who maid this introduction allowing today’s interview to happen.
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Connect with Aman Johar
- Twitter @wanderingscapes
- Proteum Capital Website
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Ben Bartlett is a Berkeley City Councilmember, appointed member of the CA Blockchain Working Group and internationally recognized policy leader. Ben has passed more than 60 measures focused on innovation, opportunity, and inclusion, including:
- Prefabricated Housing for the Homeless
- Health Innovation Zone
- Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
- telemedical adoption
- Unionized Jobs in Robotics and Automation
- Ben is currently working to integrate government and Blockchain through public finance, Opportunity Zones, and new markets.
Ben is the architect of the Berkeley Tokenized Debt Offering — a first-of-its-kind effort to create Blockchain based municipal bonds. Professionally, Ben is a partner in the San Francisco offices of Tackett Bartlett LLP where he counsels Blockchain entrepreneurs, governments, funds and businesses.
This episode we talk about:
- Are ICOs Initial Coin Offerings dead?
- What is the future of Bitcoin?
- Digital Currencies?
We want to thank Wendy Xue who organized the delegation trip to Guiyang which is where I met Ben, allowing this interview to happen.
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Learn more about Ben Bartlett
- Website http://www.tackettbartlett.com/
- Email bennybartlett@gmail.com
- Twitter @benbartlettusa
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Ben Bartlett is a Berkeley City Councilmember, appointed member of the CA Blockchain Working Group and internationally recognized policy leader. Ben has passed more than 60 measures focused on innovation, opportunity, and inclusion, including:
- Prefabricated Housing for the Homeless
- Health Innovation Zone
- Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
- telemedical adoption
- Unionized Jobs in Robotics and Automation
- Ben is currently working to integrate government and Blockchain through public finance, Opportunity Zones, and new markets.
Ben is the architect of the Berkeley Tokenized Debt Offering — a first-of-its-kind effort to create Blockchain based municipal bonds. Professionally, Ben is a partner in the San Francisco offices of Tackett Bartlett LLP where he counsels Blockchain entrepreneurs, governments, funds and businesses.
This episode we talk about:
- How can blockchain solve wealth inequality?
- What are micro bonds?
- What are smart contracts and how will they impact people?
- What is the California Blockchain Working Group and what it is currently working on?
- Are ICOs Initial Coin Offerings dead?
- What is the future of Bitcoin?
We want to thank Wendy Xue who organized the delegation trip to Guiyang which is where I met Ben, allowing this interview to happen.
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Learn more about Ben Bartlett
- Website http://www.tackettbartlett.com/
- Email bennybartlett@gmail.com
- Twitter @benbartlettusa
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Tehlma Ekiyor is an Impact Investor, Development Expert, Social Entrepreneur, Fundraising Expert, Senior Public Sector Project Advisor.
Implemented projects in 22 African countries
Served as Senior Consultant to the Africa Union, ECA, IGAD, ECOWAS
Co-founded SME.NG - Nigeria's impact investment platform for women.
pioneered the establishment of national and international non-profit and philanthropic organizations
Passionate about equipping women to participate in decision making - co-founded women's organizations.
This episode we talk about:
- What’s it like to be a strategic policy advisor for the UN?
- What happens at “Deal Day” at the end of your accelerator program?
- What’s it like to be an impact investor?
- What’s it like starting a business in a country where bank interest rates are 23%.
- What are typical investment check sizes for seed stage companies and A-round in Nigeria?
I would like to thank Gillian Harding Founder and CEO of Zoosh Pay who made the introduction allowing the interview to happen.
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Connect with Thelma Ekiyor
Email tekiyor@yahoo.com
Website https://nigeriasme.ng/
Twitter @thelmaekiyor
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Sean Randolph is senior director for the Bay Area Council Economic institute as well as being the Former Director of Trade for the California Trade and Commerce Agency, he is an Executive with expertise in economic policy, technology and innovation, and international affairs. Frequent speaker and writer on economic issues, with over 200 published reports and articles on foreign affairs, international business and economic policy.
Active kayaker and trail, mountain and ultramarathon runner.
This episode we talk about:
Which countries have the strongest ties and influence on Silicon Valley?
How big of an economic influence does Silicon Valley really have on the state of California?
How does trade policy affect startups?
What role does the Bay Area Council play in Silicon Valley and the rest of the world?
What laws are being discussed that will affect all of us in the coming years?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Connect with Sean
Bay Area Council Economic Institute
Email sean@bayareacouncil.org
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
We have Scott Orn on the show. Scott runs Operations at Kruze Consulting, a fast-growing Startup CFO Consulting firm that works with over 160 startup clients. Kruze is based in San Francisco with clients in the Bay Area, Los Angeles and New York. In addition to his Operations responsibilities, Scott runs the Venture Debt Consulting practice at Kruze.
In his spare time, Scott publishes the Founders & Friends Podcast, which interviews Startup CEO's, Investors and other service providers in the startup ecosystem.
Before Kruze Consulting, Scott was a Partner at Lighthouse Capital, a private debt fund that lends to startups. In addition, Scott ran Community Products at Callisto Media. Prior to joining Lighthouse, Scott spent three years in Technology Mergers & Acquisitions at Hambrecht & Quist which was later acquired by JPMorgan Chase.
Scott has an MBA from Kellogg, and an undergraduate business degree from CAL Berkeley. He also has a CFA and has passed the Series 7.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How do companies get into trouble by having sloppy financials?
- What are common tax mistakes that startups make?
- When should a company bring in a CFO consultant?
- What are some stories from Venture Debt Consulting with startups?
- What is it like to grow a company while at the same time becoming a new parent?
Help us out! Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a review and rating! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Tweet your comments about this episode directly to Shawn Flynn and the rest of The Investor’s Podcast Community using #TIPSiliconValley.
BOOKS AND RESOURCES
- Download yourfree audiobook at Audible.
- Find the best job candidate at Ziprecruiter.
- Connect with Scott on LinkedIn and Twitter.
- Kruze Consulting
- Founders & Friends Podcast
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s episode, we chat with Jerry Ross. Jerry is an energetic and creative leader who has achieved success leading corporate, start-up, and non-profit organizations. He is a life-long entrepreneur that has been honored as "CEO of the Year" by the Orlando Business Journal, and the "Economic Development Leader of the Year" by I-4 Business Magazine for his work at the National Entrepreneur Center.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What does it take to be an investible company?
- How can a startup ecosystem be built? What is needed?
- What are the resources that are available to startups that they might not know about?
- How does a founder find those first big corporate sponsors?
- How does a corporate partnership or a pilot program between a startup and a corporation usually work?
- What skills can or can’t be taught to a founder of a company?
Help us out! Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
BOOKS AND RESOURCES
- Download yourfree audiobook at Audible.
- Find the best job candidate at Ziprecruiter.
- Connect with Jerry on LinkedIn
- Follow Jerry on Twitter
- Email Jerry
- National Entrepreneur Center
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s episode, we sit down with Raymond Chen. Raymond is a board member and the President of CIE-SF, a non-profit volunteer organization. He spent 19 years in the Electronic Design Automation (EDA) software industry. As the co-founder and Senior Vice President of Sigrity, Inc., he not only led many aspects of product architecture, engineering process, customer application and support, operation and IT with a worldwide team, but also marketed and sold innovative technologies and tools to leading-edge customers in semiconductor, computer, communication, networking, and consumer electronics companies.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Is the type of research that universities do more advanced than what the private sector is capable of? Or is it the opposite and the private sector is more advanced?
- What is Electronic Design Automation software?
- How does a software company protect its software from it being stolen and IP infringement?
- What is the Chinese Institute of Engineers (CIE)?
BOOKS AND RESOURCES
- Download yourfree audiobook at Audible.
- Find the best job candidate at Ziprecruiter.
- Find Raymond Chen on LinkedIn
- Chinese Institute of Engineers Website
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s episode, we char with Dr. Prasun Mishra. Dr. Mishra (Ex-Genentech, Ex-NCI, Ex-NIH) is the Founder and CEO of Agility Pharmaceuticals. He is a serial entrepreneur who founded his first company after graduating high school, and second company during his PhD.
Since then, he has accumulated a wealth of experienced by building, investing and advising numerous other companies. He is an investor/ co-founder/ board member of a few US based corporations focused on accelerating drug discovery & development, blockchain & digital health. Dr. Mishra is also founding president & CEO of American Association for Precision Medicine (AAPM) and is leading research efforts focused on preventing & curing chronic diseases; not only treating the sick but also providing knowledge/tools to individuals to live longer, healthier lives.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What is precision medicine?
- How is Big Data Analytics, AI and technology impacting the medical industry?
- Is the current process for drug discovery broken and if so, how can it be fixed?
- Will technology be at a point where research can be one step ahead of possible mutations in viruses or drug resistances?
- What does all this new technology mean for the skill requirements of health professionals?
We would also like to thank Atul Padha who made the introduction that allowed today’s interview to take place.
BOOKS AND RESOURCES
- Download yourfree audiobook at Audible.
- Find the best job candidate at Ziprecruiter.
- Find Dr. Mishra LinkedIn
- Email Mishra
- American Association of Precision Medicine
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s show, we’re happy to chat with our very own Stig Brodersen. Stig is a value investor, business owner, and international bestselling author. His podcast We Study Billionaires has over 30 million+ downloads and has been recognized as the #1 ranked stock investing podcast in the world with awards such as:
-
1 stock investing podcast on iTunes
-
1 stock investing podcast on Google
-
1 investing podcast by CNBC
-
1 investing podcast by Business Insider
In this episode, you’ll learn:
-
How does a podcast host build a relationship with advertisers for their shows?
-
How do analytics play a part in podcasting?
-
What are the struggles with having the core team in another country?
-
How can one make a career out of podcasting?
BOOKS AND RESOURCES
- Download yourfree audiobook at Audible.
- Talk to Stig Brodersen on Twitter
- Follow Stig Brodersen on LinkedIn
- Get the latest updates on We Study Billionaires by The Investor’s Podcast Network on Facebook
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
James Ehrlich is a serial entrepreneur in the areas of technology, media technology and clean-tech. He is the founder at ReGen Villages, Entrepreneur in Residence at Stanford University Center for Compassion, Altruism, Research and Education (CCARE), and faculty at Singularity University.
James is part of an on-going White House Task Force on the Nexus of Food, Water, Energy and Waste and advising the Office of Science and Technology Policy and Department of State on regenerative platform development and implementation at the neighborhood scale. He also co-authored the UN Sustainability Platform Brief "Regenerative Community Development" with Professor Larry Leifer and Chris Ford (AIA) at the Stanford University Center for Design Research.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How is tech leading towards a sustainable future for all?
- What is the Wood Wide Web?
- How are digital twins used in the modeling villages of the future?
- What technology will be used for completely self-reliant cities?
- What is it like to be the first ever Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Stanford?
Help us out! Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
BOOKS AND RESOURCES
- Download yourfree audiobook at Audible.
- Find the best job candidate at Ziprecruiter.
- Connect with James on LinkedIn
- ReGen Villages
- James’ TV Show Hippy Gourmet
- Email James Ehrlich
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s episode, we sit down with Jim McKelvey. Jim is the co-founder of Square, a financial services, merchant services aggregator, and mobile payment company. In 2009, Jim designed a card reader which in 2011 was inducted into the Museum of Modern Art. Jim then teamed with other St. Louis-based serial entrepreneurs to help found Cultivation Capital which was ranked the 7th most active venture capital firm founded since 2009, and the 3rd most active lead investor and since 2017, McKelvey has been appointed as an Independent Director of the St. Louis Federal Reserve.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why you can’t be an expert as an entrepreneur
- About Jim’s new book “The Innovation Stack: Building an Unbeatable Business One Crazy Idea at a Time”
- The incredible story of how he first met Jack Dorsey (cofounder of Twitter) and how they built Square together
- The story of the man that if he had wanted could have been the richest man ever to have lived
BOOKS AND RESOURCES
- Download yourfree audiobook at Audible.
- Visit Jim’s Website
- Follow Jim on Twitter or connect on LinkedIn
- Read Jim’s new book
- Read “Good to Great” by Jim Collins
GET IN TOUCH WITH SHAWN
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
Rich Razgaitis has been passionate about building brands and teams. Since 2002, he has served in CEO/president-level roles in several venture capital backed start-ups, privately held turnaround and growth companies, and he brings insight from those experiences to his work today at FloWater.
Raz was the CEO of several consumer-tech companies, including DealOn, an e-commerce company that developed the Web’s first deal-commerce exchange, and another, MyTownPerks, which built the first PCI-complaint, cloud-based loyalty program for B2B. (Both companies were subsequently acquired.)
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What is the current problem with the “state of water” domestically and globally?
- What are the challenges of a hardware company when it comes to cash flow?
- How is a hardware company’s growth different than a software company?
- How are “refill stations” positioned as smart devices?
- What is the big vision and big events for the company Environmental Tech in 2020?
Help us out!
Please take a few seconds and leave us a positive review as it helps the show grow and motivates us to create content. Thank you for helping and giving back to the show!
BOOKS AND RESOURCES
- Find out more about FloWater
- Follow FloWater on Twitter
- Follow FloWater on Instagram
- Email FloWater
CONNECT WITH RAZ
Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
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- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Crystal McKellar is the Founder and Managing Partner of Anathem Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm investing in companies that have developed breakthrough technology that they are pragmatically leveraging to win and own uncrowded, high-margin markets. Crystal currently serves on the board of Cooler Heads, and previously served as a board member at Siren, Neurable, and DoubleDutch (acquired by Cvent) and as a board observer at Fractyl.
Crystal is a Kauffman Fellows Mentor, and has served as a mentor to the TechStars MetLife Digital Accelerator and the Ad Astra tech incubator program. Crystal is a proud member of All Raise and is a frequent speaker on entrepreneurship and innovation at technology conferences and finance events.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- When raising a fund, what recommendations are there for first-time fundraisers?
- What are the relationship dynamics between a Venture Capitalist and the Limited Partners (LPs)?
- The life of a VC, how is it really? What are some of the positives and negatives of the role?
- What are the advantages of keeping the fund size small?
We would like to thank Maya Tussing for making the introduction which allowed for today’s episode. Thank you for the support!
HELP US OUT!
Please take a few seconds and leave us a positive review as it helps the show grow and motivates us to create content. Thank you for helping and giving back to the show!
CONNECT WITH CRYSTAL
LinkedIn| Website | Email
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s show, we’re happy to chat with Nichole Yembra. Nichole is the Founder and Managing Director of The Chrysalis Co which houses The Chrysalis Capital, a new $15M Africa and Diaspora early stage tech fund and The Chrysalis Advisors, a strategy and investment advisory firm.
In addition to this work, Nichole is deeply committed to making gender diversity a priority within the financial-technology 'fintech' space in Nigeria and enhancing opportunities for women in leadership. She founded the Garden Women's Network, a group dedicated to the development and retention of high-performing women in the Nigerian tech ecosystem.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What’s it like to be a minority Female Venture Capitalist raising a fund to invest in African Startups?
- Does a typical Silicon Valley Venture Capital fund structure work in Africa?
- Which countries in Africa have a thriving startup ecosystem?
- What are some difficulties facing African entrepreneurs?
- How do African startups expand into new markers?
We would like to thank Nigel Salina who made the introduction that allowed the interview to happen.
HELP US OUT!
Please take a few seconds and leave us a positive review as it helps the show grow and motivates us to create content. Thank you for helping and giving back to the show!
CONNECT WITH NICHOLE
LinkedIn | Twitter | Email
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s show, we sit down with Kelly Coyne who is deeply immersed in the Silicon Valley start-up community. Having grown multiple start-ups from conception to over $100M valuations, she is a leading Go-To-Market expert. After earning her MBA from Oxford University, Kelly served at the helm of several early-stage hardware companies (Lily, Mimosa, Candl) and advised many others.
Kelly has broad technology experience, but specializes in guiding Robotics, AI, AR/VR and computer vision companies from concept to launch. She has tremendous experience managing successful betas, developing use cases, connecting products to the right customers, and leading successful product launches. She has also seen some of the extreme pitfalls of SV start-ups - this unique knowledge helps her guide new companies to success. She is a Techstars and Oxford Creative Destruction Labs mentor.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How have the VCs changed over time in relation to their paths and career backgrounds before becoming a VC?
- What are the skills or knowledge that is going to be key to be a successful VC in the future?
- What does it look like to be a fundable pre-seed hardware company?
- What are the two largest issues that early-stage robotics and artificial intelligence startups face?
- What is “humanized AI”?
HELP US OUT!
Please take a few seconds and leave us a positive review as it helps the show grow and motivates us to create content. Thank you for helping and giving back to the show!
Guest
- Kelly Coyne on Linkedin
- GritVentures.com
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today's show, we sit down with Elnaz Sarraf, who is a serial entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in technology, business, sales, and marketing. She is currently the CEO and Founder of ROYBI; an investor backed EdTech company focusing on early childhood education, that recently raised $4.2 million in its seed round. Before starting ROYBI, Elnaz co-founded and led a consumer electronics/IoT company, iBaby, serving as the company's President.
As an immigrant and female founder, Elnaz has made worthy accomplishments in a short duration living in the US. Honors include being selected as Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center Milestone Maker 2018, named the Woman of Influence through Silicon Valley Business Journal in 2016 and Entrepreneur of The Year in 2016 in Silicon Valley. She has been a speaker at several conferences such as the Mobile World Congress, ASU GSV Summit, Consumer Technology Association, and more.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How many pitch events or investor meeting might it take to raise capital?
- What is it like to raise $4.2 million on just an idea?
- Growing a hardware company, what are the struggles one might have to face?
- What are some of the limits to Artificial Intelligence and how the collection of data help improves user experiences?
HELP US OUT!
Please take a few seconds and leave us a positive review as it helps the show grow and motivates us to create content. Thank you for helping and giving back to the show!
Guest
- Roybi website
- Elnaz Sarraf on LinkedIn
- Email Elnaz Sarraf
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today's show, we're happy to chat with George Gammon. George Edward Gammon is an American real estate investor and entrepreneur. He produces and stars in the hit reality television series "Vide En Remodelacion," a home remodeling program on the Colombian network Telemedellin.
Prior to 2012, George started, owned, and operated multiple businesses ranging from conventions to advertising. After 12 years as a successful entrepreneur, at the age of 38, George semi-retired and shifted his focus to real estate in the United States. He has recently started focusing on Medellin, Colombia. He has a thriving YouTube Channel and podcast where he focuses on investing and changes in the economy.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What are some of the most difficult milestones for a company?
- What is it like for an entrepreneur who is very young and able to retire?
- Does investing in Silicon Valley companies make financial sense?
- What is the “Everything Bubble”?
- What business opportunities are there in Medellin Colombia?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
CONNECT WITH GEORGE
YouTube | Twitter | Email
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
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- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s show, we sit down with Bill Reichert. Bill is the Managing Director at Garage Technology Ventures, a seed and early-stage venture capital fund, which invest in extraordinary entrepreneurs with unique technologies that will define the next era of innovation. He takes a hands-on approach from the very beginning, partnering with talented entrepreneurs to transform their vision into reality.
He is an entrepreneur, mentor, author, speaker, board member, adviser, educator, partner, spouse, parent, and general enthusiast. Not always in that order.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What are some of the misunderstandings on trends in technology?
- What is the typical view of leadership and why this view is flawed?
- What is the difference between innovation and invention?
- What are the different types of computing and how will they impact us in the future?
- What do you see as the “hot” sector or trend for 2020?
This episode is dedicated to Craig Johnson who had a great influence in Silicon Valley.
Help us out!
Please take a few seconds and leave us a positive review as it helps the show grow and motivates us to create content. Thank you for helping and giving back to the show!
Guest:
- Bill Reichert on LinkedIn
- Bill Reichert on Twitter
- Garage Technology Ventures
- Startup World Cup
GET IN TOUCH WITH SHAWN
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Email: Shawn@TheInvestorsPodcast.com
On today’s show, we interview Brett Sharenow. Brett is a trusted advisor on raising capital from VCs, PE, and Angel investors, for start-up, growth, pivot, and exit. Since 1995, he has helped companies raise more than $750 million and have facilitated exits valued at more than $6 billion.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What happens in an analyst meeting?
- What is the “ladder” bump in valuation?
- How do companies plan out their go-to-market strategies?
- What are the 3 C’s that every company needs to have?
- What questions do Venture capitalists ask themselves when they are being given a presentation?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Guest:
- Brett Sharenow on LinkedIn
- Email Brett Sharenow
- Website
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
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- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
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- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
Summary
On today’s show, we interview Brett Sharenow. Brett is a trusted advisor on raising capital from VCs, PE, and Angel investors, for start-up, growth, pivot, and exit. Since 1995, he has helped companies raise more than $750 million and have facilitated exits valued at more than $6 billion.
On today’s show, we welcome Andreas Ramos. Andreas moved to Silicon Valley in 1992, where he worked in engineering at SGI, SUN Microsystems, Brio, IMSI, and other companies. He did translations and localization in six languages at these companies before joining Acxiom as head of the digital agency, where he worked with Global Fortune 200 clients. Andreas then led global SEO at Cisco, where he worked in 44 languages in 86 countries. He is now an Adjunct Professor of Digital Marketing at CSTU and INSEEC, and is the author of 16 books on SEO/SEM with seven Amazon #1 Best Sellers.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What are some stories of the rise and fall of some giant companies in Silicon Valley?
- Will Google and some of these monster tech companies hold their lead in the future?
- Which companies are recruiting the best engineers?
- Which technology sectors might be areas to keep an eye on in the future?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
GET IN TOUCH WITH ANDREAS
Linkedin | Twitter
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
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On today’s show, we are happy to chat with Steve Hoffman. Steve, or Captain Hoff as he’s called in Silicon Valley, is the CEO of Founders Space, one of the world’s leading incubators and accelerators. He’s also an angel investor, limited partner at August Capital, serial entrepreneur, and author of Make Elephants Fly, the award-winning book on radical innovation.
Always innovating on his life, Captain Hoff has tried more professions than cats have lives, including serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, angel investor, studio head, computer engineer, filmmaker, Hollywood TV exec, published author, coder, game designer, manga rewriter, animator and voice actor.
Hoffman was the Founder and Chairman of the Producers Guild Silicon Valley Chapter, Board of Governors of the New Media Council, and founding member of the Academy of Television’s Interactive Media Group.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What is the future of technology? Where are we headed in 20 years?
- Personal lessons shared from failing and succeeding in business?
- The reasons corporations have trouble innovating.
- One key piece of learning from your book: Make Elephants Fly?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
BOOKS AND RESOURCES
- Steve Hoffman on Linkedin
- Steve Hoffman on Instagram
- Steve Hoffman’s Book Make Elephants Fly
- Founders Space
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s show, we are happy to have Steve Hoffman, or Captain Hoff as he’s called in Silicon Valley. Steve is the CEO of Founders Space, one of the world’s leading incubators and accelerators. He’s also an angel investor, limited partner at August Capital, serial entrepreneur, and author of Make Elephants Fly, the award-winning book on radical innovation.
Always innovating on his life, Captain Hoff has tried more professions than cats have lives, including serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, angel investor, studio head, computer engineer, filmmaker, Hollywood TV exec, published author, coder, game designer, manga rewriter, animator and voice actor.
Steve was the Founder and Chairman of the Producers Guild Silicon Valley Chapter, Board of Governors of the New Media Council, and founding member of the Academy of Television’s Interactive Media Group.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How important is having cutting technology and having a successful startup?
- What are the different roles the founding members of a startup should have?
- What traits do successful entrepreneurs have?
- Is it always a good thing for a startup to have raised a lot of money?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Guest:
- Steve Hoffman’s LinkedIn
- Steve Hoffman’s Twitter @captainhoff
- Steve Hoffman’s Instagram
- Steve Hoffman’s Book: Make Elephants Fly
- Founders Space
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s show, we are happy to chat with Bob Hoffman, the author of four Amazon #1 best-selling books about advertising. He is also one of the most sought-after international speakers on advertising and marketing. One of his books, "BadMen: How Advertising Went From A Minor Annoyance To A Major Menace" exposed many of the dangerous data abuse practices that are now making international headlines. (It was selected "Best of Marketing 2017.") He is creator of the popular “The Ad Contrarian” blog, named one of the world's most influential marketing and advertising blogs by Business Insider.
Bob's commentary has appeared in the BBC World Service, The Wall Street Journal, MSNBC, The Financial Times, The Australian, New Zealand Public Broadcasting, Fox News, Sky News, Forbes, Canadian Public Broadcasting, and many other news outlets throughout the world.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How is social media marketing changing our lives?
- Are there any ethical issues that companies might be infringing on in their current ways of marketing?
- How advertising fraud is costing companies billions each year?
- Where are the biggest companies spending their advertising money?
- What should people know about social media in 2020, and the upcoming elections?
We would like to thank Andreas Ramos who made the introduction that allowed the interview to happen and to Niesar & Vestal LLP law firm which allowed us to conduct the interview in their facility. I want to thank you personally for supporting this channel.
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Books and Resources
- Bob Hoffman’s LinkedIn
- Bob Hoffman’s Books on Amazon
- Bob Hoffman’s Website
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
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- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
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- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com
On today’s show, we chat with Jeff Thomas, a Senior Vice President of Nasdaq’s Corporate Services business unit. Based in San Francisco, Jeff oversees Nasdaq’s new Listings and Capital Markets businesses. He also oversees business development and relationship management for Nasdaq’s listed companies and Investor Relations Solutions' clients in the Western United States.
Previously, he served as President of Liquidity Solutions at Nasdaq Private Market, where he worked closely with private companies to help them provide shareholder liquidity prior to an IPO.
Prior to joining Nasdaq in 2014, Jeff held senior positions at SecondMarket, Gerson Lehrman Group and Altera Corp. He holds a bachelor's degree in Electrical & Computer Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pa. He sits on the Board of Directors of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What is the investment community saying about the IPOs of 2019?
- What is a direct listing, and is it different than a traditional IPO?
- Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). What is this trend so many are talking about?
- What emerging technology is Nasdaq implementing?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Guest:
- Nasdaq website
- Jeff Thomas’ LinkedIn
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
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- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
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On today’s show, we chat with Shmuel Silverman. Shmuel is an inventor with over 145 patents & provisional publications and success with co-founding and selling two companies. He bring years of leadership experience in Telecommunications, Internet technologies, IoT, and Artificial Intelligence and have led technology teams of researchers, developers, and marketers at two global icons, where he helped develop a proven process to identify, nurture and develop unique Intellectual Property focused on protecting the business first and enabling technology second. He is a trusted advisor to attorneys, M & A specialists, and entrepreneurial CEOs around the world.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:
- What is the timeline for 5G implementation in our daily lives, how long to build out the infrastructure?
- How will cities be reimagined with this technology?
- How will the collection and security of the massive amount of data be changed with 5G technology?
- How will existing businesses be potentially impacted? How will the cost of computers, cellphones and other electronics change?
We would also like to thank Kirk Hylan who is the founder of Insite Networks for making the intro to Shmuel which allowed this interview to happen.
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Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
CONTACT SHMUEL
Linkedin | Website | Patents
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
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On today’s show, we interview Geoff Seyon. Geoff is the Founder & Managing Partner of STUDIO IXORA, a venture studio focused on applying Explainable AI to industries such as Finance & Healthcare. Geoff is an Entrepreneurial Technology Leader with 27 years of experience, inclusive of 15 years in Globally Distributed Software Delivery, Digital Health and 10 years of hands-on experience with various Artificial Intelligence approaches & technologies. Prior to assembling STUDIO IXORA, Geoff spent 15 years assembling, advising and leading multiple teams that have created 7 Digital Health and 10 AI New Ventures. Before that he also had spent 5 years at Sapient where he grew an office in India to 700 people and received the 2002 Sapient Founders’ Award.
Geoff holds Master and bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering & Computer Science with a Concentration in Artificial Intelligence from MIT, as well as an MBA from Harvard Business School.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How do overseas engineer programs match up with the top ones in the United States?
- Are there any skills that our engineers currently lack?
- How hard is it to learn how the hardware and software interact in a computer?
- What is the difference between Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning?
- What part of our mind is being replaced in the 4th industrial revolution?
Help us out!
Help us reach new listeners by leaving us a rating and review! It takes less than 30 seconds and really helps our show grow, which allows us to bring on even better guests for you all! Thank you – we really appreciate it!
Connect with Guest:
- Connect with Geoff on LinkedIn
CONNECT WITH SHAWN:
https://linktr.ee/ShawnflynnSV
- Shawn Flynn’s Twitter Account
- Shawn Flynn’s LinkedIn Account
- Silicon Valley LinkedIn Group Account
- Shawn Flynn’s Facebook Account
- Change to Shawn@thesiliconvalleypodcast.com