Funded - how they raised millions: Recent Episodes
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The tech media loves a splashy funding announcement - millions of dollars injected into a hot startup primed to become a unicorn. But what about the work behind those headlines? Host Jason Yeh, a former VC and venture-backed startup founder, talks with entrepreneurs about how they raised the capital to launch world-changing startups. Their conversations uncover incredible stories including cautionary tales, inspirational memories, and even some insightful tips. Keep up with us on social @fundedpod to learn more.
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In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore why making in-person connections can be a game-changer for founders. Recorded on location in Austin, Texas, Jason shares insights sparked by his own travel experiences, focusing on why meeting face-to-face can have a major impact on relationship-building, especially when it comes to securing investments.
In this episode of The Backchannel, we're dropping a quick but essential take on balancing brilliance and likability and how both play into the fundraising game. We revisit a core concept from a past episode: time given – time to interest. If your brilliance gets investors hooked fast, you don’t need as much relationship-building. But if it takes longer to spark that interest, likability becomes your best tool for buying more time. We also talk about how being difficult, even if you’re brilliant, can close doors.
In this episode, Curtis Northcutt, MIT PhD and founder of CleanLab, shares his compelling journey from rural Kentucky to raising $25 million from Menlo Ventures and Bain Capital.
Curtis reflects on the challenges of growing up with limited opportunities, the loneliness of dreaming big in a small town, and how those experiences ignited his drive to build something meaningful.
He also dives into the complexities of raising capital during a downturn, balancing investor relationships, and making tough decisions about dilution.
With a mix of personal stories, sharp insights, and practical advice, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a startup from scratch and scale it with purpose.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, we're diving into the role anxiety plays in fundraising, especially when it comes to warm introductions with investors. If you’ve ever hesitated to reach out to old contacts or second-guessed your follow-ups, this one's for you.
In this episode of The Backchannel, we’re talking about how VCs need to raise money too, not just startups.
In this episode, we dive into the concept of awareness for founders, focusing on how to effectively create it.
In this episode of The Backchannel, we talk about handling the pressure of investor pitches.
Many founders feel anxious about facing tough questions from investors, but it’s important to understand that these questions often come from genuine interest, not an attempt to catch you off guard.
We explore why investors ask challenging questions and how to reframe them as opportunities.
We also touch on how your existing knowledge and experience can help you confidently navigate these conversations, even when you don’t have every answer.
The key takeaway: it’s a conversation, not an interrogation.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
After bootstrapping her company for months, Teasha Cable, founder and CEO of CModel decided it was time to raise. But early on, the rejections came in hard. Instead of giving up or getting offended, she learned from each rejection, tweaked her approach, and started executing on what investors wanted to see.
After a lot of trial and error, she locked down a lead investor in the Alabama Futures Fund that ended up leading her to close a $1M seed round in a not-so-easy market.But even then, it took six more months of grinding to fully close the round. That persistence, though, wasn’t something new for her. In this episode you'll hear the story behind how she became the entpreneur we see today, and how she closed her $1M seed round for CModel.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore the different types of angel investors you’re likely to encounter early on in your startup journey.
We dive into the factors that define these investors—ranging from their wealth to their level of sophistication—and how their motivations shape their involvement.
Whether you’re seeking strategic support or just looking to raise capital, understanding these dynamics can help you navigate which angels to bring on board and which ones to avoid.
Listen in to learn how to approach angel investors and align with their expectations.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore the ins and outs of valuation caps and uncapped SAFEs.
Many founders toss around terms like valuation caps without fully understanding their impact, and we’re here to break it down.
We’ll dive into why some investors and founders are drawn to uncapped SAFEs, the potential risks involved, and when this type of funding structure might actually make sense.
Tune in to learn why this approach can be tricky for both sides and how to navigate these waters with more confidence.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Back Channel, Jason tackles the often misunderstood concept of valuation caps in fundraising.
He walks through what a valuation cap is, how it works, and its role in SAFE agreements and convertible notes.
Jason explains how these caps affect the conversion of investments into equity during future funding rounds, and covers the difference between pre-money and post-money valuation caps.
The goal is to help founders better grasp the math behind the numbers, so they can navigate their fundraising with more clarity and confidence.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
Entrepreneurship is unpredictable—just when you think you’ve got it all mapped out, you're hit with a tough choice between two very different paths.
One feels safe and familiar, while the other is full of potential, uncertainty, and risk. Every founder faces that pivotal moment: Do you play it safe, or take the leap?
Today’s guest, Michael Diesu, co-founder and CEO of Revenue Roll, knows this dilemma all too well. From diving headfirst into the startup world against conventional advice to navigating a cooling fundraising market, he's made those tough calls more than once.
RevenueRoll recently raised a $2.5M seed round led by Innovating Capital in late 2023—an impressive feat in one of the toughest fundraising climates in years.
In this episode, we dive into Michael's journey, unpack his big wins, hard-learned lessons, and get an inside look at how he closed that seed round.
But first, we rewind to the early days—because those initial decisions? They set the stage for everything that follows.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, we revisit a fundamental topic that every founder should understand: post-money cap SAFEs and their implications.
Starting with a refresher on the basics of post-money versus pre-money valuations, the discussion then moves into how these financial instruments impact founder ownership and why they can be tricky.
Listeners will gain insights into the dynamics of post-money caps, particularly the hidden complexities that can affect a company’s valuation during fundraising.
Whether you’re a new founder or just need a refresher, this episode sheds light on the often misunderstood aspects of post-money caps and offers practical advice for navigating them.
Listen in to better understand how to protect your stake in your company.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason dives into one of the most overlooked yet essential tasks in fundraising: building your target investor list.
He breaks down why so many founders avoid this work—it’s time-consuming, tedious, and can be confusing. But also emphasizes its importance and offers a step-by-step guide on how to tackle it effectively.
From researching top-down and bottoms-up investor lists to mapping out connections and crafting the right emails, Jason covers it all. He also shares tips on how to stay organized and maintain momentum throughout the process.
Whether you’re overwhelmed by the idea of reaching out to investors or just need a solid strategy, this episode has the actionable advice you need to get started.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
Fundraising can be both the most aggravating and comforting part of a founder’s journey. It only takes one “yes” to change everything, but getting there often means facing a mountain of “no’s.” Not every founder has the resilience to push through the rejection, but those who do often find success right when they’re ready to give up.
In today’s episode, I chat with Christal Wang, co-founder and CEO of Shimmer, the top ADHD coaching platform for adults. Christal shares her journey from YC to closing a successful pre-seed round, and how she navigated the challenges of raising a $2.2M seed round after a major pivot. We dive into the emotional toll of fundraising, the importance of perseverance, and how a single “yes” can make every rejection worthwhile.
Plus, we discovered we had quite similar childhoods along the way.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, we dive into a topic that’s been on a lot of founders’ minds: the difference between pre-seed and seed rounds in today’s shifting market.
We explain how the definitions and expectations for these funding stages have evolved, especially after the wild fluctuations caused by events like ZIRP and the SVB collapse.
We break down what VCs are now looking for in pre-seed deals and seed deals in the current market.
We also address common questions, like whether you can use the same pitch deck for both rounds and the role of institutional investors in pre-seed funding.
Listen to the full episode to hear more!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, the focus is on the critical role deadlines play in successful fundraising efforts. Deadlines can create a sense of scarcity and urgency, helping founders manage and control the fundraising process more effectively. By setting clear deadlines for meetings and feedback, founders can signal to investors that there are other interested parties and maintain a balance of power. Additionally, using deadlines tactfully, combining firmness with politeness, ensures they are respected without appearing overly aggressive. Deadlines also help investors prioritize opportunities, ultimately benefiting both parties. Applying the concept of deadlines beyond fundraising can improve overall efficiency and effectiveness.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode, we explore the realities of fundraising with Orri Bogdan, Founder and CEO of VAE Labs.
Like many founders before him, Orri’s journey to raising a $2M seed round was fraught with challenges. From losing co-founders to product failures and numerous rejections from VCs, Orri faced it all.
Yet, he persevered by immersing himself in founder communities, forging connections, and eventually securing funding from Draper Associates.
Orri’s story is a testament to the grit and determination required to succeed in the startup world. Before we hear Orri’s inspiring story of resilience and success, we’ll explore what led him to become the determined founder he is today.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Back Channel, we explore a critical topic for founders: showcasing traction to VCs.
Jason does another mailbag answering questions submitted by founders worldwide, exploring topics like how macroeconomic conditions impact investor targets, the importance of presenting meaningful metrics, and strategies for highlighting your unique traction.
We also discuss key red flags to avoid and tips on effectively presenting growth without setting unrealistic expectations.
Listen in for actionable insights and advice to enhance your fundraising efforts!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, we revisit a popular topic among founders: how to create efficient fundraising processes.
We address several questions submitted by founders, exploring various aspects of the fundraising journey.
Our discussion covers strategies for improving investor outreach, managing communications, and maintaining momentum throughout the process.
We also touch on common challenges founders face and offer general advice on approaching investor interactions.
This Q&A format allows us to provide targeted insights on the specific concerns many founders have when it comes to fundraising efficiently.
If you have questions for us that you want answered in a future episode, make sure to send us an email or shoot us a DM on any of our socials!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode, we sit down with Coco Brown, founder of Athena Alliance, to discuss her journey of transforming a nonprofit into a venture-backed enterprise and successfully raising $2.5M in funding.
Coco shares her experience with the challenging fundraising climate of 2023 and how she navigated countless investor rejections.
She talks about the pivotal moment when one investor’s commitment turned things around and how that single yes sparked a wave of support.
We explore her strategies for capital efficiency, the importance of community, and the innovative approaches she took to secure funding.
Listeners will gain insights into the realities of raising capital, the power of perseverance, and the impact of having a strong network.
Coco's story is a testament to the resilience and creativity required to succeed in the startup world.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode, we're tackling an important startup scenario: unexpected VC interest.
We'll be answering a question Jason received from a founder who received an out-of-the-blue email from an investor.
We'll also some practical tips on how to handle these situations smoothly, including ways to maintain control of the conversation and your timeline, the benefits of not immediately jumping into fundraising mode, how to research potential investors, and what to prepare (spoiler: less than you might think) for initial meetings.
Plus, we'll give you some pointers on transitioning from casual chats to formal fundraising when you're ready.
Whether you're new to the startup world or a seasoned pro, this episode has some valuable insights you can put to use.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Back Channel, we dive into five thought-provoking strategies to elevate your fundraising game while challenging existing advice.
We explore concepts like pitch deck templates, riskiness of your idea, seeking rejection, tiering investors, and fundraising preparation.
Join us as we challenge norms and empower you to refine your fundraising tactics effectively.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
A lot of entrepreneurs take risks when they're young and have nothing to lose. For others, it's a different story. Maybe they found their dream job, started a family, bought a house, and then something happens that completely throws them off course.
Today's guest was one of those people. After an unexpected situation, he decided to take a chance and start a company he saw an opportunity for back at his previous job in AI. It ended up being a good chance to take...
Today we're speaking with Brian Raymond, first time founder and CEO of Unstructured IO, a company that's connecting enterprise data to LLMs. And we have to say... his story is wild.
In 2 years, Brian's managed to raise $65 million dollars in venture capital across three rounds. The most recent of those being a $40M Series B led by Menlo Ventures.
Brians journey into entrepreneurship was unique, but also one I think a lot of you listening will be able to relate to.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, the focus is on why intelligent individuals often struggle with pitching to investors.
The discussion includes the common pitfalls such as overemphasizing data, battling imposter syndrome, and the tendency to overcomplicate pitches to prove intelligence.
The importance of simplicity, emotional connection, and embracing rejection as part of the fundraising process is also highlighted.
Overall, the episode provides valuable insights and strategies for intelligent founders to improve their pitching skills.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason answers 5 questions submitted by founders about pitch decks and pitching strategies.
During the episode, he highlights the importance of simplicity and clarity in both deck design and delivery.
Jason also discusses balancing design and content, conveying a compelling vision, and avoiding information overload.
On top of that he also touches on effective communication in short pitches and the strategic use of competition slides.
Make sure to listen to hear his full answers!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
When all you've ever known is running a bootstrapped startup... the world of venture capital can feel pretty intimidating. Bootstrapping a company is an extreme sport, and so is going down the path of venture capital - but each path is completely different from one another.
You might have been able to build an amazing company that you believe can be huge (with the help of venture dollars), but without understanding how the game of venture capital actually works - you're at a huge disadvantage.
Today's guest Analisa Goodin, founder and CEO of Catch+Release knew this and decided to be proactive about it.
Way before she went out to raise her first of three successful rounds, she became a relentless networker which over time, led her to conversations with VCs getting her to learn the space. Clearly, something clicked because Catch+Release has now raised over $31M in venture capital.
Listen to the full episode to hear more details on her most recent rounds as well as advice she has for up and coming founders looking to raise capital.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
VC signals can be tricky. A lot of them are deeply intertwined with social dynamics and can change investor interest in a matter of seconds.
In this episode, Jason shares a recent example of how fast negative signaling can impact a deal.
Listen to the full episode to learn about different types of VC signals and how you can use them to help you raise your round!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
Welcome back to The Backchannel! In this episode, we're trying out a new format where we dive into your burning questions about how founders should navigate investor passes. Join Jason as he addresses the following questions:
- Should you send a follow-up email after a pass? How soon is too soon to follow up after an informal meeting?
- Is it appropriate to ask for feedback on why an investor passed?
- How soon do I follow up with an investor who seemed interested?
If you enjoy this format, let us know what other topics you'd like us to cover!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
When life throws you tough times, you only have two options: to give up or find a solution.
Today's guest felt slightly differently when they ran into some truly unexpected situations... they decided there was actually only one option: find a solution and move forward.
Our guest for this episode is André Ferraz, co-founder and CEO of Incognia, a fast growing leader in the online fraud prevention space.
Over the past decade, Incognia has had its fair share of ups, downs and even pivots - ultimately leading them to find the PMF that landed them $45M in venture funding in under 3 years.
André's story is wild and super inspiring, and we can't wait for you guys to hear it!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason pushes back at the common practice of founders sending out monthly investor newsletter updates.
Although it may work for some founders, monthly newsletters aren't for everyone.
In this episode Jason shares a few other ways to use investor lists like targeted updates, requests for help, specific achievements and so on.
Make sure to listen to the full episode to hear his full thoughts!
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If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
Hey everyone, welcome back to the Back Channel! Today, we're mixing things up.
My producer Paige read an article from the Bay Area Council Economic Institute and wanted my take.
They claim tech workers are flocking back to SF, with major companies still headquartered there, and a big chunk of AI investment dollars staying local.
Although there's truth to that, I think the pandemic has opened doors for other cities.
San Francisco is still important due to its history and other specific reasons, but there are other places on the rise.
Listen to the full episode to hear my take on the article!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode, we dive into the unpredictable world of startups, where the only constant is change. Joining us is Jennifer Lewis, co-founder and CEO of Lex, a pioneering social app for the LGBTQ community. Jennifer shares her rollercoaster journey through the venture-backed startup landscape, a path filled with highs and lows, trials, and significant growth.
Despite the notion that startups should be smooth sailing, Jennifer's experience tells a different story—one of persistence and resilience. She recounts the daunting challenges she faced while raising capital, which paradoxically energized her and her team to secure a substantial $5.6 million seed round. This episode reveals how coming close to failure can unveil a newfound strength and determination.
We also take a personal look at Jennifer's background, tracing her unlikely path from her early years to becoming a leader in tech innovation. Her story is a testament to the unexpected turns life can take and the transformative power of embracing them.
Tune in to gain insights into the gritty realities of startup life and the pivotal moments that can define a company's success.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore everything you should consider when figuring out how much you need to raise.
Jason delves into the common questions founders face regarding fundraising amounts, the importance of being goal-oriented, and the two key goals for raising funds.
Jason also stresses the importance of calculating the necessary funds to hit these milestones, rather than opting for smaller, seemingly easier amounts that could lead to a "bridge to nowhere."
Drawing from his mentor, Alan Patricof, the host underscores that investors seek meaningful progress, not just minimal survival.
The episode provides a clear framework to help founders determine how much they need to raise for their companies.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, the host launches a new series called "How I Work," exploring strategies for productivity.
Jason delves into the challenges faced by founders, such as digital distractions, and shares his personal approach to combatting them.
By disconnecting from the internet during certain periods and utilizing a digital notepad like the remarkable device, he emphasizes the importance of carving out distraction-free time to boost productivity.
Join him as he shares insights and invites feedback on navigating the demands of entrepreneurship.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
What makes someone a successful founder?
Is it how much revenue they're able to generate? How well they lead their company and their employees? How many investors they're able to land?
Those all play a role ... but the real answer is probably more nuanced and certainly harder to pinpoint.
When we look at any successful founder throughout history, it's natural to wonder how they got there. To wonder what made them different from the thousands of others who tried to walk the same path and failed.
Today I get to talk to Ian Swanson, 3x venture-backed founder and current CEO of Protect AI.
Ian has raised over $82M in venture capital throughout his career with two successful exits . In today's interview, we touch on all three of Ian's companies, sharing the ups, the downs, and the in-betweens of running a venture-backed company.
Tune in to uncover the untold stories behind Ian's path to success and discover what sets him apart in the world of entrepreneurship.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
If you're looking to learn how Adamant is helping founders prepare for their fundraise, head here: admnt.com
In this episode of The Backchannel, the host emphasizes the critical role of third-party feedback in the fundraising process for entrepreneurs.
Reflecting on a recent interaction with a founder, the host describes how an initially chaotic business pitch was clarified and refined through his outsider's perspective.
This episode underscores the unique advantage of third-party insights, which strip away emotional biases and unnecessary details to highlight the core message that resonates.
The takeaway is clear: seeking external opinions on fundraising materials isn't just helpful; it's essential for success.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
In this episode, the host shares the power of personal newsletters for VC's, shedding light on investor psychology and fundraising strategies.
Drawing from anecdotes from his personal life and interactions with VC's, he highlights the importance of staying top of mind in the competitive landscape of deal flow.
By sharing stories of missed opportunities and the dynamics of VC interactions, he underscores the significance of personal branding through newsletters.
Ultimately, the episode offers a pro tip for VC's to leverage personal newsletters as a means to enhance deal flow and foster lasting connections while simultaneously teaching founders about investor psychology.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Join us on a journey through the winding roads of entrepreneurship with our guest, Nancy Xu, the Founder & CEO of Moonhub.
From her early days training for the U.S. math and physics team to her academic journey at Stanford and her stint as a software engineer at Facebook, Nancy seemed destined for academia.
However, her passion for impactful ideas steered her towards entrepreneurship, leading her to start Moonhub, the pioneering AI-powered recruiter.
With over $10 million raised in just two years, we explore how Nancy's background in AI research and building crucial relationships laid the foundation for Moonhub's success.
Join us as we unravel the fascinating story of Nancy Xu raising millions from big named venture capitalists like Google Ventures and Khosla Ventures.
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In this episode, our host covers the importance of having a technical co-founder for non-technical founders and how to go about finding one.
Venture capitalists seek teams with diverse skill sets, understanding that successful companies require both technical and non-technical expertise.
For non-technical founders, making progress and creating value without a technical product is key to attracting top talent.
By understanding the "why" and "how" of finding a technical co-founder, you'll be better equipped to build a strong co-founding team and drive towards success.
Join us as we explore the steps ahead in this journey!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
In this episode of the Back Channel, we explore the importance of addressing competition during investor meetings.
Drawing on an analogy from the hosts undergrad economics class, he emphasizes the significance of positioning oneself confidently alongside competitors and calmly articulating one's unique value proposition.
Rather than avoiding the conversation, address the competition with calm confidence, focusing on your strengths and differentiation. It's all about owning your narrative and demonstrating why your direction is superior.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
There's a quote from Abraham Lincoln that always really speaks to me: "Give me 6 hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first 4 sharpening my axe."
It's become a mantra of sorts for me, especially when it comes to fundraising. I share it with all of the founders I work with because it encapsulates a fundamental truth: the preparation before the task is key.
In my experience, the ease of a fundraising journey is directly proportional to the groundwork laid beforehand. Those lightning-fast fundraises? They're not just luck; they're the culmination of years, even decades, of relationship-building and experience.
Take today's guest, Scott Kriz. As the co-founder and CEO of SGNL, he raised over $22M in less than 2 years, drawing on a decade of industry know-how. But this success wasn't overnight. Scott had already navigated the fundraising landscape with his previous venture, Bitium, where he secured $15M in VC funding before its acquisition by Google in 2017.
Scott's journey underscores the importance of early struggles in paving the way for future triumphs. This episode is filled with knowledge, so make sure to listen till the very end!
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In this episode of The Backchannel, host Jason Yeh delves into the world of junior VCs and their path to becoming venture capitalists.
Drawing from his own experience at Greycroft and the hiring processes, he emphasizes the significance of technical backgrounds, industry connections, and experience in fields like consulting or banking.
Venture capital firms prioritize hiring from networks with access to potential deals and founders, highlighting the importance of networking in this industry.
Ultimately, understanding these hiring practices provides valuable insights for aspiring venture capitalists.
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Dilution is one of those things that a lot of founders seem to 'lightly' understand.
That's why in today's episode, Jason breaks down a step-by-step example of how dilution actually works.
Discover the significance of understanding dilution and its impact on ownership over your company.
See you next week on The Backchannel!
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Bootstrapping and raising venture capital are two different beasts. Bootstrapping gives you control, but growth is slower. Venture capital speeds things up, but you have to give up some control.
There is, however, one thing they both have in common: each requires a leap of faith.
Today's guest is pretty unique. She's someone who's gotten to experience building both types of companies - one bootstrapped, one venture backed.
That guest is Guta Tolmasquim, founder and CEO of Purple Metrics, which recently closed their first institutional round of capital, a $1.2M pre-seed led by Astella, one of the top venture firms in Brazil! But before Purple Metrics, Guta founded Brand Gym, a company she bootstrapped and built all by herself.
As you can imagine, the transition to building a venture backed company was... interesting
In this episode, we get to learn about how Guta ended up closing her $1.2M pre-seed round and just how powerful building your network really is.
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A lot of people tend to forget that the pre-seed round in venture capital is still relatively new.
In today's episode, we talk about how the pre-seed round came about, and how it's changed since moving farther away from the bull markets back in 2020 and 2021.
One of those changes being the need for investors to see traction earlier and earlier before investing.
Make sure to watch the full episode to hear all the insights around pre-seed rounds!
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Have you ever heard of the quote "The safest way to get what you want is to deserve what you want"?
It was said by the legendary investor Charlie Munger, and in todays episode we're going to talk about how you can apply that same understanding to fundraising as a startup founder.
Get ready to listen along and ask yourself to answer hard truths about yourself and your company.
See you next week on The Backchannel!
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Most of us have heard the saying "good things don't come easy", and I'd be willing to argue that the majority of people agree with that statement on some level.
But sometimes, good things do come easy and THEN they get harder. And it's in those pivotal moments where you really get to see what you're capable of.
That was the case for today's guest Mohak Nahta - founder and CEO of Atlys - a company he started as a side project to solve his own problem of getting his visa on time when traveling.
In today's episode, we get to hear the story behind not only Mohaks most recent $12M Series A but also his experience raising his $4M Seed round. Grab your notebook, because this guest is dropping all the fundraising knowledge!
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Hello & welcome back to The Backchannel!
Today, we're diving into a topic that's often overshadowed in the frenzy of fundraising: whether or not to announce your round.
Drawing from the hosts own experiences and observations, he'll guide you through some of the complexities involved in making this decision.
Join us as we dissect the strategic implications and weigh the pros and cons, offering practical insights for founders charting their course in the startup landscape.
See you next week!
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The truth is - most first-time fundraisers underestimate all that goes into fundraising and the support you need to make it through.
In this episode, Jason touches on 7 different emotional and tactical forms of support every founder should be aware of before jumping into a fundraise.
Make sure to watch the full episode so you don't miss any!
See you next week on The Backchannel.
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There is one thing that almost every single entrepreneur has in common - the drive to change the world in some way, shape, or form.
For today's guest, she spent years of her career working for organizations like Doctors Without Borders and the United Nations, living overseas and funding entrepreneurs who were trying to make a difference in their communities.
Stacy Edgar is the co-founder and CEO of Ventuer, a company revolutionizing the healthcare space. To date, Venteur has raised a total of $7.72M in venture funding. $120k of that being a pre-seed round from Techstars, the other $7.6M coming from the seed round they closed in August of 2023 led by GSR Ventures.
In this episode Stacy shares some of her stories from raising her seed round as well as her success with open enrollment and the hard decisions they had to (and continue to have to) make while raising and scaling the business. Make sure to listen to the full episode!
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In this episode of The Backchannel, the host delves into the intricacies of lead investors versus co-leads, breaking down the key distinctions and red flags to watch out for.
Learn why securing a dedicated lead investor holds paramount importance in navigating the complexities of fundraising, and gain valuable insights into the potential pitfalls of co-lead arrangements.
Tune in for an informative exploration of investment dynamics and strategic considerations to think about before considering getting a co-lead. See you next week!
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Join us in this episode for an insightful discussion on pattern recognition in venture capital and its impact on underrepresented founders.
The host dives into the power dynamics of pattern matching, exploring how VCs use this tool to make investment decisions while shedding light on its potential biases.
From the imprecision of pattern recognition to strategies for overcoming its limitations, this episode offers practical insights for both founders and investors.
Listen in for a solid conversation on leveling the playing field in startup funding.
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While most kids were occupied with typical childhood activities, today's guest was already knee-deep in the world of technology. From coding PHP to deconstructing old computers with his pops, his early passion for innovation set the stage for an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey.
Fast forward to the present, Igor Marinelli stands as the visionary co-founder of Tractian, a cutting-edge machine intelligence company that has gained significant attention in the startup ecosystem. With an impressive $63 million in funding raised within just four years, including a substantial $45 million Series B led by renowned investor General Catalyst, Igor's achievements are nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Join us as we delve into Igor's insightful narrative, exploring the pivotal moments that shaped his entrepreneurial trajectory and propelled Tractian to success.
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In this episode, the host tackles a common yet often misunderstood slide in pitch decks: the "use of funds" slide.
Many founders include it because they've heard it's necessary, but often it ends up being a vague waste of space.
Instead, use this slide strategically to outline where you are today, your future goals, and how the allocated funds will be specifically utilized.
By anchoring it in concrete objectives and clear allocation, you not only inform investors but also demonstrate a thoughtful plan for executing with the capital raised.
So, next time you're crafting a use of funds slide, ensure it serves a purpose and isn't just a filler in your deck!
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In this episode of the Back Channel, Jason shares a fresh approach to email communication that's both personal and impactful.
Learn how to craft emails with a punchy, genuine tone while including a business-focused appendix for all the important details.
Say goodbye to lengthy, synthetic emails and hello to increased response rates.
Listen and discover the power of the email appendix and revolutionize your communication style!
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In the last two decades, the startup industry has seen remarkable transformations, from the emergence of angel investors and venture capital firms to the rise of SaaS, cryptocurrencies, and the global diversification of the field.
But what's even more exciting is the increasing presence of female founders, who, despite facing challenges, are making significant strides in entrepreneurship.
Today, we're chatting with Joanna Strober, a founder who's witnessed this industry shift firsthand. From being one of the few women in venture capital to securing venture backing for her first company (which was later acquired by Weight Watchers), and raising a total of $39M for her latest venture, Midi Health, Joanna's journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Curious about what it was like being apart of a changing industry? Listen to find out.
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In this episode of The Back Channel, we delve into a crucial post-fundraising topic: choosing service providers for your startup.
While it may seem mundane, the decision-making process can greatly impact your business.
Key takeaways include filtering for providers with startup expertise, considering the additional value they offer beyond their core services, and trusting your instincts about the working relationship.
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Join Jason Yeh on The Back Channel as he demystifies thesis-driven firms. They may not be as rigid as you think!
Ever wondered why these firms love their theses? It's not just about focus; it's also a way to say "no" graciously when a deal doesn't spark joy.
Plus, it can also be used for flexibility! Some startups may not seem thesis-fit, but if you dig deeper, they'll find intriguing connections to make the deal work.
Don't be afraid to engage with thesis-driven firms. Look beyond the thesis, explore their portfolio, and you might discover hidden opportunities!
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Just like with any skill, there are beginners, and there are experts. Through practice and experience, the experts become exceptional at what they do.
In fundraising, there are also experts. You could call them the "seasoned vets" of venture capital. These are the founders that have raised all the way from small angel rounds to Series B and beyond. It's safe to say that any founder who's raised over 4 rounds of venture capital knows a thing or two about fundraising.
Today, I get to share my conversation with one of those fundraising experts.
Dylan Beynon is a 3x Founder who has raised hundreds of millions of capital throughout his career. His most recent venture is Mindbloom, a company that provides at-home psychedelic care that transforms mental health which he has raised over $50M across 3 rounds for.
Dylan's success with Mindbloom is amazing, but his why is even better. Get your tissues, this one might pull on your heart strings...
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In this episode, Jason shares a conversation with a founder who recently raised capital but had to close their startup.
First-time founders, remember that every setback is a chance to improve. Closing a startup isn't the end; it's a chance to evolve.
Once you've felt the grind and tasted success and failure, your perspective changes. You gain insights you can't find in books or tweets.
It's also important to note that venture capitalists value founders who've been through the startup rollercoaster. Understanding the ups and downs is what sets you apart.
Share this episode with fellow founders or friends on going through a tough time with their startup.
Embrace the learning process - see you next week!
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Ever wondered why your startup story and pitch deck need to be razor-sharp?
Sure, you want to impress investors, but there's more to it than meets the eye. Host Jason Yeh dives into the secret sauce of crafting a compelling narrative that not only wows investors but also ensures your story gets shared effectively.
In this episode:
💡 Discover the critical importance of a concise story that grabs attention
💡 Learn why your pitch deck is more than just a visual aid—it's your investor's roadmap.
💡 Uncover the hidden power of making your story easy to share, especially in firms with multiple decision-makers
Ready to be convinced to tighten up your pitch?
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2023 was a tough year to fundraise. Almost all venture-backed founders felt the toll of being in a down market this past year.
But when you're a female engineer, on top of that a female founder of a tech company - it almost always feels like a tough year to fundraise.
For Heather Shoemaker, Founder and CEO of Language I/O, she never expected to fundraise. She ran a profitable company and was growing steadily each year from her headquarters in Cheyenne, Wyoming!
But as we know - things change. Competitors come, and there's things you have to do in order to keep moving forward. In Heather's case that meant going out to raise her first venture round.
It took awhile, and she met some very interesting VCs along the way, but eventually she ran into the right people and closed her seed round.
In this episode, we get to dive into Heather's fundraising journey and how that ultimately led her to raise Language I/O's $8M Series A in July of 2023.
Stick around towards the end and you'll also get to hear from some of Heather's investors from Wyoming VC!
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In this episode, we explore the wisdom behind reconnecting with investors who previously passed on your pitch.
Remember, investor passes aren't personal; they often stem from timing or fit issues.
Before reconnecting, update your narrative with progress highlights.
When reaching out, exude confidence without begging.
Showcase your growth, increasing investor interest, and upcoming fundraising round.
These reconnections aren't just about securing funding; they're opportunities to refine your pitch and bolster credibility.
Ready to reconnect and ace that pitch?
Go ahead and give this episode a listen!
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In this Backchannel episode, Jason tackles a familiar trap for founders: productive procrastination!
From fixing pages to creating automations, it's easy to get caught up in tasks that feel productive but aren't top priorities for fundraising.
I get it, working on things you enjoy is crucial, but as a founder, your plate's overflowing.
Listen to this episode to hear Jason's insights on how to distinguish between enjoyable distractions and high-leverage tasks that drive real progress.
Prioritize your focus and avoid falling into the "builder's trap"!
Keep building, but build smart!
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Not every entrepreneur starts off knowing what business they want to create. For Bobby Pinero, Co-founder and CEO of Equals, it took him 8 years of building Intercoms Finance Organization to the success it is today until he found the product he wanted to create.
Best part? He is building the product he always wished he had while working there.
In today's episode we dive into Bobby's background, how he decided on Equals, and ultimately the trials and tribulations that went along with raising a $16M Series A from one of the top VC firms out there - Andreessen Horowitz.
If you're looking to see what Bobby is up to, find his information below:
Bobby Pinero
- Twitter: @bobbypinero
- LinkedIn: Bobby Pinero
Equals
- Twitter: @heyequals
- LinkedIn: Equals
- Website: equals.com
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Have you ever compared fundraising with real estate?
Once you do, you'll be shocked by their similarities.
In today's episode, Jason gives a real life example of how he discovered just how similar they are.
While having to find a new renter for his home, he realized how he still needed to build momentum, keep options open, and communicate the value of the property in a way that grasped others attention.
He even learned the lesson of not getting too ahead of yourself, and to keep running a process until the papers are signed.
Listen to the full episode to learn more about the similarities between fundraising and real estate and how you can use this analogy yo help your fundraise.
See you next week on The Backchannel!
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For a topic that seems to be "cliche", it sure is important.
What if we were to tell you that getting support around your fundraise is one of the best ways to guarantee success?
As founders, you are automatically biased toward your own product.
That means you are also biased toward your pitch, deck, and any other materials you might share with an investor.
In this episode, Jason dives into 3 areas of fundraising you should be getting support around, and why it's so important.
See you guys next week on The Backchannel!
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Who should be the one to pitch - the CEO or the outgoing salesman?
In today's episode of The Backchannel, Jason explains why he believes the CEO should always be the one pitching to investors.
Although there might be a few exceptions, investors are looking to get to know the person who is running the ship and making the big decisions.
A salesman sells the vision, the CEO is the one who executes on it.
Remember: investors bet on the jockey, not just the horse.
See you next week!
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In this Back Channel episode, we're diving into the elusive "money round" investors adore.
So what is it?
To sum it up, the "money round" is the round before a valuation spike.
Investors are searching for crystal-clear milestones and confident execution that screams, "Next round, here we come!"
How do you do that?
Make sure to watch the full episode where Jason dives into the details.
See you next week!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Working with founders it's safe to say Jason has seen a lot of pitches, good and bad.
Not to mention he himself has pitched quite a bit in his past as a VC-backed founder.
In that time, he's learned what to do and not to do.
In this episode, Jason gives some practical tips around how to make the most of your pitch for a pitch competition.
Enjoy the episode!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
There's a lot of talk about data rooms in the startup world - but a lot of founders struggle to understand what a data room actually is.
In today's episode, Jason discusses their purpose in validating a startup's pitch for investors.
On top of that, he explains when and how to share a data room effectively.
Founders, if you're even slightly confused around how to properly use your data room to help you get funded - watch this episode!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
In this episode, we're unraveling the mystery behind Zoom-based pitches – a critical skill in the post-March 2020 startup landscape.
Jason takes us on a journey, reminiscing about the pre-COVID days of in-person meetings, shaking hands, and engaging conversations.
Ever wondered why some pitches feel like a Broadway show while others are just a mundane PowerPoint affair?
Today, he shares the secret sauce: making your Zoom pitch more of a dialogue and less of a presentation.
Forget the monotony, inject life into your virtual pitches, and learn how to capture investors' attention authentically.
Make sure to give the full episode a listen. We'll see you next week on The Backchannel!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Slow and steady doesn't always win the race.
In this episode of The Backchannel, we dive into a unique perspective on startup success that's not just about fundraising but about building a thriving business.
Jason emphasizes the importance of launching your startup before you think you're ready.
Forget about striving for perfection—what you really need is to get something out there and start chatting with customers.
Find out how launching before your masterpiece is complete not only leads to a better product but also impresses investors.
Tune in to this episode to discover why taking the leap now can save you from a lot more trouble down the road.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
In this episode of The Back Channel, we've got a cool fundraising hack for you.
Ever thought about hosting networking dinners to amp up your investor connections?
Sure you won't become best friends overnight, but these connections create a sense of mutual support for one another.
Plus, it might surprise you how similar the process of setting up a networking dinner is to setting up a fundraise.
If you're tired of feeling like you have no way of growing your network - this episode is for you.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
One of the hard truths of fundraising is that most founders don't have nearly enough investors added to their target lists.
Some stop at 20, others even less.
In all reality, you should AT LEAST be targeting 100.
And if you're going to be targeting that many, one of the things you are going to need is a CRM system.
Having a database for tracking your communications is one of the best ways to run a tight process and stay organized when meeting with investors.
In this episode, Jason dives into the details of using CRM systems when going out to fundraise.
Give it a listen & look out for weekly insights around fundraising, brought to you by The Back Channel.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Pre-seed vs. seed.
It seems there are more and more terms coming out, but no one fully knows what they mean.
My guess is even most investors don't actually know the difference.
Nevertheless, it's good to get an overall understanding of what the world of venture capital means by these two closely associated terms.
In this episode, Jason outlines the key differences between seed and pre-seed while also explaining how to answer this seemingly hard question from investors: "Are you raising seed or pre-seed?".
Give it a listen & look out for weekly insights around fundraising, brought to you by The Back Channel.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Rejection.
It's a fundamental part of the game, even for the biggest success stories like Airbnb.
Rejection is tough, but it's also a chance to learn.
Don't let it drag you down; build a packed calendar for pitches, boost your confidence, and remember that every "no" is a step closer to a "yes."
Rejection is your path to funding success. Believe it!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
We are in new times.
Raising money has become harder than it used to be.
Impressing VCs has started to feel like it's impossible.
Because I work with founders on a daily basis, I know the struggle.
So, I made this episode where I'll be going over the top things to be prepared for before going out to raise.
Founders, it's time to take notes!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
A few months ago I had a fireside chat with a successful venture backed founder and friend of mine, Daniel Hatkoff.
I wanted to bring him on is because like myself, he has also gotten to wear both hats as a VC and founder, so he's got a ton of valuable information around raising venture capital.
During our chat there was this reoccurring theme of reputation, and how building his ultimately led to a successful $30M round for his company Pitzi.
In this episode, I go over the key takeaways from our conversation around building a great company and reputation. Tune in
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Let me get something straight: fundraising is tough. You will be challenged. You will be knocked down.
But if you have true grit and passion for your company, not even the hardest of blows can keep you down.
For Tiffany Kelly, CEO and founder of Curastory - she know's all too well what it's like to take a hit. And less than two months ago, she experienced what I call a founders worst nightmare.
In today's episode, you get to hear an unfiltered version of what it's like being a founder raising multiple rounds of capital in a difficult market. Huge shoutout to Tiffany for keeping the conversation so real and authentic.
This is why I love these conversations. I love creating opportunities for founders to see all that went into those million dollar round you see on social media.
Granted not all are as difficult as Tiffany's was, but they're definitely no walk in the park either.
Give this episode a listen to see how one tiny move by a VC firm almost destroyed Curastory.
If you're looking to see what Tiffany is up to, find her information below:
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffmkell/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/tiffmkell
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tiffmkell/
Curastory - https://curastory.co/
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Depending on how long you've followed me or stayed in touch with what I'm up to, some of you might not know that I fly down to Brazil at least a few times a year.
One reason being I have a good friend who runs a company down there called Colbi.
I had no idea that he would connect with me the founder of an organization that I still partner with till this day called Latitud. If I had to sum up what Latitud is, I'd say it's now the YC of LATAM.
Since then, I've fallen in love with the startup ecosystem in Brazil that only seems to be speeding up.
In this episode, I talk about the different things I noticed around the startup/vc space during my last trip back in July.
If you're from LATAM or curious about the opportunity growing there, this episodes for you!
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
As an entrepreneur, it is all too easy to lose yourself in your work. If you aren't careful, your entire life becomes consumed by it.
This is not to say you shouldn't be obsessed with the your company and the goals that you have for it.
But let it be a reminder that forcing yourself into burnout is not serving you or your company.
As a 3x founder himself, our host Jason Yeh dives into 3 things he does to maintain a sense of work/life balance.
If you are some who struggles to unplug from your work, give this episode a listen.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
It's becoming more and more common for people to get through college and realize they still have no idea what they want out of life. On top of that, majority of the time we're too scared to do anything about it.
Next thing we know time has passed and we feel suffocated in a job we don't even like. We put our dreams on the back burner, sacrificing creativity for stability.
For today's guest Lucas Martinez - Co-founder and CEO of Talent.com - he knew right away that the corporate world wasn't for him.
Because of this, he knew he had to act on it - fast.
This decision let him to start his company with two of his closest friends. It was a messy start, but once they got the ball rolling they were able to land around $1M CAD from angel investors alone.
Because of that raise they were able to become pretty profitable. Great, right? But after some time the investors were ready to pull out, and it was time to run a process.
In this episode, Lucas talks about what it was like trying to create a business of quality while at the same time scaling it. He talks about mindset, the benefits of working with VC's, the ups and downs of raising, learning to plan, and how passion was the key to Talent.com's success.
If you're a founder looking to understand all that goes into scaling and raising for your company, give this episode a listen.
If you're looking to keep tabs on what Lucas is up to, find his info below:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/lucas_martinez
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucas83/
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
What's the most important part of pitching your company to VCs?
Some think it's sharing the right numbers and statistics.
Others think it's about giving the investors a wealth of information about the company.
And then there's those who believe storytelling to be the key.
To be clear, I think all of these are important aspects of a pitch.
But theres something missing - emotion.
If you tell a story but have no emotional connection to it, it's just a story.
If you overload investors with information and numbers but they have nothing to connect it back to, it's just clutter.
In this episode I talk about the importance of connecting all aspects o your pitch through emotion.
If you can get an investor to feel the relief your product or service gives to it's customers AND then back it up with proof, chances are you've got a deal.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Ever since chatGPT was released in November of 2022, there has been a flood of other AI platforms pulling from OpenAI's original technology.
That being said I was so curious to know what that means for venture capital firms funding these new AI companies, when it seemed like all the hard work was being done by OpenAI.
Why were investors pouring money into these AI startups that didn't seem to have defensible technology?
I wanted to hear from experts in the industry who could give me answers - so I made it happen.
A couple of months ago I hosted a fireside chat with Yohei Nakajima, GP of Untapped Capital and founder of BabyAGI and Sarah Catanzaro, GP at Amplify Partners.
They were able to answer all of my questions and more. In this episode, I sum up their answers and key takeaways for you to hear.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Andrew Gazdecki might have had some successful raises (totaling over $11M) but paradoxically, he believes 99% of founders shouldn't raise.
As the founder of Acquire.com, the best online marketplace to buy and sell startups - Andrew fills us in on the dangers of placing too much importance on fundraising as a founder.
Instead he believes in focusing on constant improvement, listening to your customers, and creating an amazing culture. From there, everything else will fall into place.
Glorified by the media, fundraising lots of dollars seems to be equated to running a successful company - something Andrew thinks is far from the truth.
Look out for our conversation with Andrew where he tells us about growing up with an itch to be an entrepreneur, building a business of value, and utilizing his resources (even when he started with none) to find the perfect investors.
If you're a founder getting ready to raise or thinking of raising, you don't want to miss his insights.
If you're looking to keep tabs on what Andrew is up to, find his info below:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/agazdecki
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/agazdecki
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/agazdecki/
Website - https://www.andrewgazdecki.com/
Acquire.com - https://acquire.com/
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
The art of introductions is something heavily ignored when founders are learning how to start their fundraising process.
Truth is, intros are the lifeblood of a great fundraise.
There are many different components that go into making introductions, but today we'll be focusing specifically on forwardable emails.
While meant to simplify, intros often backfire - especially if you lack a process behind it. This episode will give you all of the basics surrounding forwardable emails like sequences of interactions, double opt-ins, connecting emails, and more.
Head to our website to find some real examples of what a forwardable email should look like: adamantventures.com
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Side letters are not only more complicated than they seem but dangerous to your fundraise if not properly managed.
Side letters, often accompanying standard agreements like safes, may seem harmless at first but can include onerous clauses like pro-rata rights.
In this episode Jason emphasizes the importance of early negotiation and proactive communication to safeguard founder interests.
Tune in to protect yourself from this common challenge in the fundraising world.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
A lot of people say that the hustle of an entrepreneur starts long before their first business. For Thomas McLeod, 5x serial entrepreneur, this couldn't be more true. Growing up, Tom never stayed in the same place for too long. Constantly bouncing around to different schools, it got him used to being uncomfortable and facing challenge. By the time he was in middle school, Tom was already calculating profit margins off of baseball cards that he was selling to his fellow classmates.
As we get deeper into the episode, Tom speaks on some of the difficulties and achievements he faced along his path of building five different companies and the lessons that he learned along the way. One of those lessons being to drop the expectation of things always working out as a founder. Instead, he speaks on learning from his mistakes and using them as opportunities to better not only his company but also his character.
Now, Thomas is building his 5th company Arkive, a decentralized museum of culture curated by its own members, which was able to raise a $9.7 M seed round back in July of 2022. Whatever Tom's doing, it's working.
Regardless if you are a founder or not, this episode is full of mindset gems that can be applied to almost anything in life.
If you want to stay in touch with what Thomas is up to, you can find him here:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/tmcleod3
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tmcleod3/
Arkive - https://arkive.net/
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Project management - an often overlooked and unsexy aspect of fundraising.
Contrary to the dramatic portrayals in movies, fundraising is essentially a series of repetitive and detailed tasks. While not brain surgery, these small actions demand attention and diligence.
While it might seem like project management is 'taking away' from more glamorous business pursuits it's actually the underpinnings that form the foundation for success.
Success in fundraising lies in effectively managing oneself and others throughout the process.
In this episode Jason discusses the importance of creating processes that set you up for success. If you tend to avoid project management, this ones for you.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
One of the most common dilemmas faced by founders in the fundraising world is the chicken and egg dynamic.
Much like the age-old question, founders often grapple with the challenge of needing investor interest to gain confidence and at the same time, requiring confidence to attract investor interest.
Truth is in order for an investor to be confident in you, you first have to be confident in yourself.
In this episode, Jason will be exploring how to implement a process in order to break free from this cycle of uncertainty and instead - create confidence from within.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Community & representation. These are the two things that Lolita Taub, founder of Ganas Ventures has prioritized while building her fund.
Most people within venture would view the way in which Lolita has built her fund as unconventional or even impossible, but that hasn't stopped her from establishing one of the strongest communities filled with minorities and other underrepresented founders who have been pushed away from the 'conventional' world of Venture Capital.
So where did this drive to create change come from?
Being from a family of immigrants, you could say her drive has always been there. Lolita grew up with the understanding that she had to work twice as hard in order to get the same amount of recognition, especially in the work place.
By no means has her journey been easy, but it's been worth it. In this episode, we learn more about what it's taken for her to get this far and what it means to be a founder of a VC firm.
If you want to stay in touch with what Lolita's up to, you can find her here:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/lolitataub
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lolitataub/
Website - https://www.lolitataub.co/
Medium - https://lolitataub.medium.com/
Ganas Ventures - https://www.ganas.vc/
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
We’re back on post-money cap SAFEs talk!
In the previous episode, we explained what it is and how it works within the fundraising process.
For this episode, Jason goes deeper as he illuminates a more specific topic: the anti-dilution provision within post-money cap SAFEs.
With the evolution of the fundraising and startup worlds, many things have changed, and the rounds raised by founders are tremendously affected.
This affects everyone in the process - both founders and investors.
Tune in with us as we examine the entirety of this process and how it affects your fundraising!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Founders are often intimidated by some of the more complex fundraising concepts.
One of these is the concept of post-money cap SAFE.
Post-money cap SAFEs can get tricky for some founders, especially for first-timers.
In this episode, Jason dives a little deep into the dynamics of this concept, along with SAFEs in general, valuations, and how it all relates to the post-money cap SAFE.
Get your pens and prepare for this episode as we talk about specific examples and scenarios, concepts involved, and steps to take so you can better navigate your fundraising journey.
Oh, and this is only part 1. Make sure to tune in next week for the 2nd part on this topic!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
We all have stories we like to keep to ourselves for many reasons.
It’s uncomfortable to tell these stories because they may be a sign of weakness, a reminder of a terrible mistake, or that nobody would understand.
This is why many founders tend to adopt the “fake it til they make it” attitude.
This won’t work forever, though.
In this episode, Jason tells a couple of stories where a founder’s vulnerability was precisely what they needed to get their investors to understand them fully.
Tune in as we talk about what really goes into an investor’s mind when they hear about your problems, struggles, and mistakes.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Entering the fundraising world is one heck of a journey - a big rollercoaster ride, to be exact.
You'll face endless ups and downs, and there will be times when you don’t know what to think or feel anymore.
In this episode, Jason dives into the rollercoaster that founders experience throughout their rounds.
Hear about the everyday things founders encounter when raising money, how they should deal with the never-ending change of emotions, and how you can stay above things.
If you need a push for confidence and validation right now, then this episode is for you. Tune in!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Building decks is one of the most significant steps of preparing to fundraise.
Knowing what to include and how to deliver it is key to a successful deck.
Over time, people have used various tools to help them build their decks - but for Jason nothing beats this simple trick: note cards.
In this episode, Jason Yeh talks about how note cards aid in the complicated deck-building process and how founders can take advantage of this tool.
Find out how note cards can greatly improve your deck and how your concepts can come together through their use. Stay tuned!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Talking to investors can be gut-wrenching for founders, especially for first-timers.
The anxiety of going up to someone, asking for money, and promising returns can shake founders up and cause them to lose focus.
But it’s all about mindset.
Are you chasing, or are you the one being chased?
In this episode, Jason Yeh explains why embracing the concept of being chased is vital for founders when approaching investors.
Join us as we uncover the truth behind the chase mentality in fundraising and how you can communicate with your investors more effectively.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Every startup business knows that aside from expertise and skills, you also need grit and resilience when starting your company.
Building from the ground up takes a lot of effort, skills, and of course, money.
Not everyone finds it comfortable asking for money though.
Founders raise money for one common reason: to scale the company.
But there are also other possible reasons - like the reality of needing a salary.
Bootstrapped turned venture-backed startups know this best - specifically our guest for this episode.
Shiloh Johnson, an innovator who bridged the gap between technology and taxes, joins us as she dives deep into her fundraising journey as someone who started with no idea how to fundraise.
Amidst her operational need for money and her deeply personal discomfort around asking for it, Shiloh was able to push through and is now sitting on millions raised for her company, ComplYant.
Join Shiloh and Jason in this episode and learn how Shiloh went through a series of pivotal points that eventually led to her decision to raise money and close multiple successful rounds.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Founders heavily live on the "grind culture" - working long hours and setting aside various personal parts of their lives to achieve their career goals.
However, as we near the end of another year, it's vital to remember that we all need a break.
Take this holiday season as an opportunity to reset your mind and make your journey exciting again.
In this episode, Jason Yeh talks us through the importance of getting rest in the midst of working hard for your company.
He shares some stories about how taking breaks from pitch decks and fundraising actually helps you more than you think.
So get cozy, clear your mind, and tune in with us as we end this year well-rested.
May your holidays be warm and joyous. Cheers!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
We all have to start from somewhere small, and venture capitalists are not an exception.
They aren't magically "experts" in the field and know every twist and turn - VCs undergo training like the rest of us.
In today's episode, Jason Yeh talks about what processes VCs go through to be considered experienced VCs who are looked up to in the industry.
He covers what such training means to founders who brave the battlegrounds of raising money and responding to feedback.
Tune in and discover the importance of knowing the different experiences VCs go through that molds them and their standards in deciding where to put their money.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Being a great entrepreneur is a commitment to continuous growth, learning, and experience.
There isn’t only one profile of a great entrepreneur - it can be anyone and anywhere.
One that might hold back success? Lack of resources.
In today’s episode, Jason Yeh talks us through the impact of having support structures and a solid network in one’s fundraising journey - and the absence of them as well.
We all have that potential or spark in us. But the harsh reality is that not everyone gets to turn that spark into a burning fire.
So what do we do then?
Tune in as Jason discusses this challenge in the world of entrepreneurship.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Did anybody say appetizers? We’re all in 🤤!
Appetizers are underrated and frequently overlooked, but they are no less important than the main course, don’t you think?
They get people excited and look forward to the next dish.
Appetizers are an excellent primer for what’s yet to come - the main course.
In today’s episode, Jason Yeh talks about the appetizer in fundraising: pitch decks.
Join us as Jason talks about overcoming the feeling of unworthiness when pitching, improving your decks, and attracting the best investors in your deal.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Getting your company’s valuation right is a crucial and complex process that hugely affects the future of your company.
Too high? Investors might think it’s a turnoff. Too low? You gave away too much and shot yourself in the foot.
Because of ego and pride, most founders tend to pursue the highest valuation possible. Most founders but not this episode’s guest.
Emmanuel Straschnov, a French entrepreneur and co-founder of Bubble, asked for a lower valuation in the seed round for his company.
And if you think that this is the mark of a failure, you’re wrong.
Emmanuel raised his seed round successfully and a few years later pulled off a monster round - raising over $100 million from big-name investors.
With his laser-focused passion, accompanied by his ability to look at the bigger picture, he was able to take a path different from most founders.
In this episode, Emmanuel takes us back from the very beginning and puts light on what happened throughout his fundraising journey for Bubble, following his unique and risky valuation strategy.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
The key to creating a remarkable network and achieving a successful fundraise? Credibility.
In this episode, Jason Yeh talks about credibility - how important and fragile it is when you are a founder looking for your investors.
With everything uncertain in the startup and fundraising world, credibility is one of the few things investors predictably rely on.
Tune in with this episode and find out stories about credibility, its importance, and how you can safeguard it!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Getting constructive feedback from experienced investors has always been part of any founder’s journey.
When it comes to feedback, it’s vital that you accept this truth: your business is not for everyone, and that’s okay.
Some will like it, some might take time to see your vision, and some will immediately reject it.
In this episode, Jason Yeh talks about one of the most famous painful pieces of feedback that investors give founders: “This isn’t venture-backable.”
That feedback isn’t the end of the fundraising journey though. There are things to consider and actions to take before really deciding whether or not your business is venture-backable.
Don’t miss this episode and find out the truth behind that statement, how you should take it, and what actions you should follow up with.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
When you are a first-time founder and fundraiser, the first thing you’ll look for is a guide.
You’ll look for successful founders in the industry you’re planning to enter, or companies that share the same vision. And most likely, you’ll look for ones that have a similar background.
Like any other beginner, you need a pattern to follow.
But what do you do when you don’t have a model to follow because you are actually the first person to step in that door?
No guide. No patterns. No representation.
That’s the situation Stax’s CEO and founder, Suneera Madhani encountered when starting her company.
Having been raised in a solution-oriented environment by her immigrant parents, Suneera knew she needed to move forward on her own and be the pattern she needed.
In this episode, Suneera brings us into her journey as she reminisces all the struggles she faced - on top of needing to raise money.
With no venture background, having nobody to follow, and dealing with challenges as a minority, Suneera was able to pave her way toward her now billion-dollar company, Stax.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Now that the world is slowly emerging from the pandemic that transformed our lives over the past two years, it’s about time that things go back to normal.
Catching up in person, talking over coffee, meeting for dinner - it’s been a while, and a trip to Brazil for a live workshop reminded Jason why face-to-face is so important.
In this episode, Jason talks about the power of holding in-person meetings.
Despite the convenience that zoom meetings offer founders and investors, nothing beats the experience of sitting across the table from the person you’re talking to.
What can in-person meetings specifically bring to the table that long hours over zoom could never?
Tune in to this episode as Jason discusses his observations around the difference between online and in-person meetings.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Prioritizing tasks during fundraising preparation is one of the essential things a founder must stay on top of.
A common struggle with this is starting to work on important fundraising tasks that don’t feel urgent.
In today’s episode, Jason talks about the Eisenhower matrix - a matrix that explains the different tasks you encounter, the struggle of prioritizing those tasks, and how you can deal with it all.
Discover the “danger zone” in the Eisenhower Matrix of fundraising preparation and what you can do to avoid it.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
No matter how much you plan for your fundraise, you're still bound to be challenged.
Investors want to know that they're betting on a founder who knows his industry cold, has an incredible plan, and can pull it all together to create a huge outcome.
However, no amount of planning could prepare the co-founder and CEO of Flow Club, Ricky Yean, for the challenge he was about to face.
At the beginning of 2020, he wanted to build a consumer-social product. Unfortunately, by the time he started preparing for fundraising, COVID had hit… and everything changed.
In this episode, we hear about how Ricky navigated the changing waters and applied jedi-level fundraising approaches to close a fantastic fundraise to pull in fuel for his Flow Club fire.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Ever wonder what’s the first thing that comes to mind for investors when they see your deal?
Aside from curiosity, anxiety creeps up on them, too.
One of the biggest anxieties that cross investors' minds? “Why am I seeing this deal?”
Two things they’re considering - are they seeing your deal because it came from a good source… or are they seeing your deal because it was rejected by other investors.
In today’s episode, Jason gives us a peek inside the mind of investors - and how fundraisers could better understand this element of investor psychology.
Tune in and learn more about this investor anxiety and how you can leverage it in the best way possible!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
As founders, it’s normal to want to show investors that you are worth it - that you are an expert in your field and that your company means something.
This is the main reason why a lot of founders make the mistake of overcomplicating their pitch.
You try to show the value of your company without realizing that there’s unnecessary complexity attached to it.
In today’s episode, Jason talks about why you should not be doing this.
Find out what “pitch the circle” means, and how this relates to the way you deliver your pitch.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Thesis-driven firms have been on the rise for the past few years.
These firms have a specific area of focus - one they use as a main driver for their marketing.
Because of this, some founders have a hard time in finding the “right” firm they’d want to invest in their business.
But did you know there's a dirty little secret behind these theses?
In today’s episode, Jason reveals a secret behind thesis-driven firms - and what you can do with that information.
Find out this secret and get some actionable advice for your fundraising now!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
They say the second time’s a charm - and that rings true for Robbie Bent, CEO and Co-Founder of Othership, specifically on his fundraising and founder story. Like most entrepreneurs, he had a massive drive to succeed. His mindset, however, turned out to be one of the major things holding him back from what he was really passionate about.
He pushed beyond limits, and reached a point where he needed to step back.
Needless to say, his first ever experience fundraising taught him basically everything possible that he did wrong. Years, tons of realizations, and a huge mindset shift later, Robbie found himself in an entirely different industry, solving the right problem - one he knew was the right one for him.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Diversity hasn’t always been a major part of the world of venture capital and startups.
But founders of different ethnicities, cultures, and backgrounds have started entering the market in a big way. As that’s happened, it’s been amazing to watch the ever-changing landscape of founders starting their own companies.
In this special Funded episode, we look back and hear the stories of diverse founders we got to encounter the last two seasons: Erin Carpenter, Isharna Walsh, Nicole Emrani Green, and Kameale Terry.
All of them had their own different challenges to overcome, but shared one thing in common: an uncommon drive to succeed.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Introductions hold incredible power in the world of fundraising.
Pulling a good network together and getting to know new people takes effort and time. But you know what? It’s a hundred percent worth it.
You’ll find out why in this episode, where Jason breaks down the importance of introductions - both cold and warm, and how it basically forms the backbone of early-stage fundraising.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Rejections. Passes. Declined proposals.
These things are inevitable in any fundraising story - so as early as possible, it’s best to prepare yourself for what’s to come.
Because no matter how hard you prepare and how much effort you exert, there will still be people looking at you with doubt and criticism.
In this episode, Jason tells the story of one of the most famous ‘pass’ stories ever, and how it affected the founder’s game plan in continuing forward with his journey.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Everybody has their own timeline. Some succeed early on their journey, while others go on for so long that they feel that success is too far away.
But the thing in entrepreneurship is - you never know what to expect. Things might go your way at a very, very unexpected time.
In this episode, Jason shares one of the craziest, fastest fundraising rounds that happened right before his eyes - getting a signed term sheet within just 8 days.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Mastering your company’s narrative is one of the most vital things that you should have when starting any business. It’s what sets you apart from all the other competitors that are trying to solve the same problem as you do.
In the world of entrepreneurship, having strategies about what and how you tell your story is necessary so you can be sure that you will really reach your target audience in the best way possible.
In this episode, Jason talks about exactly that - what are these strategies, why do you need them, and how you are going to create them yourself.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
With all the social media platforms at our fingertips, everyone can stay updated about any and everything.
People consume content on social media on a daily basis - and as we know, individuals nowadays are heavily influenced by what they see online.
And as founders/fundraisers, you should definitely take advantage of this.
In this episode, Jason talks about why you should post and share your wins on social media, how it benefits you, and how even small actions can create a huge impact in your fundraising journey.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Ever heard of a good drug?
And no, what I’m talking about is probably not what you’re thinking… it’s the fear of missing out.
In the eyes of founders and fundraisers, FOMO is a feeling you want potential investors to sense deeply.
Curious? Tune in to this episode and hear more about the benefits of using FOMO as a strategy in getting them on board with your company.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
No matter how much you prepare for something, there always comes a time when you stumble and fall.
Truly, mistakes are inevitable in any circumstance in our lives, but that doesn't mean we can avoid some of them through learning from other people’s experiences, right?
In this episode, Jason goes into detail about one of the biggest mistakes that founders make in the process of searching for investors, and how you can avoid them.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Red flags are warnings that there’s possible danger ahead - so when you see one, it’s best to turn around and change your direction.
In fundraising, there are many red flags that investors look out for. We’ve already mentioned one of them in our past episodes: a company that is a solution looking for a problem.
In this episode, Jason elaborates on a specific red flag he commonly sees in startups, and how you can avoid falling into that trap.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
When should you start taking meetings with investors?
If you think you should wait until you’ve already started raising money to reach out, then you’ve got it quite wrong.
Ever heard of warm-up meetings? If not, then you’re in for a treat!
In this episode, Jason talks about the importance of getting introduced and talking to investors way before the start of your fundraising journey - and how your approach should look like.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Adjusting to whichever investor you’re talking to is necessary to get the most out of any conversation. Understanding where they are coming from will help you know exactly what approach to use.
In the fundraising world, we all know that every single person is unique - people all have different mindsets, motivations, and end goals, all of which affect their decision-making process.
In this episode, Jason expands on the connection between selling and fundraising. Knowing what type of investor you’re talking to—and tailoring your approach accordingly—can help you succeed in your fundraising journey.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Selling. Fundraising. Selling. Fundraising.
Are they related? What’s the connection? Is the knowledge of one a requirement for the other?
In today’s episode, Jason expounds on these two concepts, and how their dynamics work together in the world of fundraising. Look out for some helpful tips that you can apply to your own fundraising process.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Have you ever wondered how essential it is to put in a lot of energy and effort into a process?
We sometimes focus so much on our end goal that we tend to forget that the preparation required is equally as important, and sometimes even the highlight of the entire ride.
In this episode, let’s take a quick look at how important it is to focus on the entire process itself of fundraising, which, when done well, can be transformational for you as an entrepreneur.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
When you’re at the point of scheduling meetings with investors, that’s when you’re most likely to feel overwhelmed.
Should you categorize your investors? Who should you talk to first? What if you mess up? How do you know you are doing the right thing?
All these questions swamp your mind and all of a sudden, you now have tons of meetings to prepare for.
But worry not! In this episode, Jason lays out a critical tip that every fundraiser should know by heart, especially new ones, when it comes to investor meetings.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter.
There’s always a gray area when it comes to setting the valuation for a business during the fundraising process.
The big question is always… WHO?
Is it the fundraiser, the investor, or is it agreed between the two? What’s the basis? How is it determined?
In this episode, Jason shares his take on who should set the valuations and explains why he thinks that way.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter.
Mastering language has got to be one of the most important psychological tools anyone can utilize and benefit from - including and especially for fundraisers.
Speaking and understanding the same language of people you work with can work wonders when it comes to making connections and raising funds.
In this episode, Jason talks about the critical importance of learning your investors’ language and how vital it is for your process, especially if you want to win at the game of fundraising.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter.
One of the most vital processes before facing investors is building the perfect pitch deck.
There is a tough balance to find with decks. You don’t want to be too short and lack the information an investor needs to get excited. You also don’t want to be too long and overwhelm the reader with data.
In this episode, Jason talks about pitch decks - particularly, his favorite part of it, appendices - and why it’s an important part of your pitch deck.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter.
Are you a problem looking for a solution, or a solution looking for a problem?
Pondering on this is vital for entrepreneurs, especially for first timers who are just establishing the core of their business. While it’s easy to get lost in the world of entrepreneurship, it’s also worth it to spend time thinking about the real “why” of whatever you’re working on.
In this episode, Jason talks about the difference between these two - a science project and a business.
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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter.
Distinct insights, actionable steps, and juicy secrets behind the closed doors of fundraising - from an insider who has experienced both investing as a VC and raising money as a founder.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur searching for ways to get started, a first-time founder looking to speed things up, or an experienced fundraiser looking for an edge - The Backchannel’s got your back.
We've got some exciting news to tell! Hear the latest updates revolving around our podcast - what's new and what's to come. Stay tuned for the upcoming weeks!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Fundraising for software that supports charitable giving started off as a challenge for Grapevine CEO Emily Rasmussen. After unlocking the fundraising story that would gain traction, she ran into another challenge. The year-end holidays disrupted her momentum and threatened to sabotage an exciting round. Emily shares how she weathered the storm and the important lessons she learned about the impact of calendar timing when raising.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Adeel Malick, the co-founder and CEO of Humming Homes, had the perfect background to start a company and lead a fundraise. Experience at startup studios, an MBA, and stints at top venture capital firms had him setup to knock the first fundraise for his startup out of the water. When things didn't go as planned, Adeel had to reflect, regroup, and recommit to the process to get his company the seed funding it needed to scale.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Jack Alton was a startup vet before he was recruited to join Neuro-ID as its CEO in 2016. His requirements to join included headquartering the company in Montana and building a remote first culture. Back then those pursuits were not only rare but considered flaws. 5 years later, they would be come major reasons for Canapi Ventures to preempt Neuro-ID's Series B round.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
In 2016, Guy Friedman was a successful startup founder with an exit. Most would think that would make raising money for his next company SteadyMD a breeze. Instead, none of his prior investors decided to back him and he was on a familiar grind to getting funding. Fast forward to 2020 and Guy was steadily growing his core business when a wave hit in the form of acceleration towards telemedicine. All of the sudden he was surfing and fundraising became a very very different experience.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Our most popular Funded interview from Season 1 was an incredible 2-part episode where Sam Corcos, the CEO of levels talked about his scientific approach to fundraising. As more people ask about Sam and our episode, we decided to remix the 2 episodes into a single episode and add a fun new debrief to the update you all on how the episode content holds up nearly a year later.
Read on...
Much like the "secret master plan" for his company Levels, Sam Corcos openly talks about what he was able to decipher when it comes to the science of fundraising. This is exciting because fundraising approaches have traditionally been shared with tribal knowledge, feel-based language. In this conversation, Sam talks about how how he decided to follow his training as a scientist rather than rely on fundraising folklore. The result was a data driven process that has left even the most experienced investors speechless. In addition, Sam shares details around a large key to his success - his very large cap table. Afterwards, we discussed specifics around his approach to attracting a $12MM seed round led by Andreessen Horowitz and how newcomers to the sport of fundraising might fare employing similar tactics. We wrap the episode as we always do with a debrief, but this time also include a special guest who had a front row seat to all the action.
Thanks to our sponsors DocSend and Vanta for supporting this!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Parker Treacy created his first successful company in the United States without raising ventures capital. For his second company, he would need to learn two completely foreign languages to be successful as he set out to launch a company in Brazil and fundraise. Eventually, Parker became fluent in both Portuguese and the language of venture capital as he built his business Cobli and raised over $40MM dollars.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Erin Carpenter grew up focused on becoming an entertainer with classical training as a ballerina. Along the way, an embarrassing uniform mishap as a young dancer and continued frustrations throughout her career drove her to embrace an entrepreneurial fire that led to starting Nude Barre. For this professional dancer, learning the fundraising dance was a struggle. After 10 years of bootstrapping and failing to raise money, she finally figured out the steps and eventually raised Seed capital from the likes of Serena Williams, Whitney Wolfe Herd, Jason Calacanis, and Freestyle Capital.
Listen to learn what helped her find the way and launch the next phase of growth in her business.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Nicole Emrani Green's journey from the rambunctious daughter of Persian immigrants to venture-backed CEO has had many twists and turns. Surprisingly, her first career in psychotherapy gave her some of the tools to help advance herself as a leader and successfully close a $4MM Seed round for her company Givingli. Listen to the story as she describes the way she's learned the startup ropes as an outsider and the feeling of a past funding rejection she's now grown to be proud of.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Matt Pohlson, co-founder and CEO of Omaze, has had one of the most death defying startup journeys ever. Time and time again, his company has been on the brink of death, only to be saved by Matt’s persistence and never-quit attitude. While most involved nearly running out of funds, one experience involved his own near death experience as he flatlined on an ER bed with his family surrounding him. Persistence brought him back from the brink and eventually back to Omaze where he used an even stronger belief in their mission to lead a Series B fundraise in March of 2020 just as COVID began impacting the world.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Zach Bruhnke, co-founder and CEO of HMBradley, had a shot at startup glory with his first fintech company Spout. After investor skepticism caused him to throw in the towel, he vowed not to have his own convictions be swayed in future companies. Zach shares how a crazy commitment to the vision with HMBradley as well as a natural approach to building relationships led to both company and fundraising success.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Kameale Terry never wanted to be an entrepreneur, but eventually a problem she saw first hand in the electric vehicle industry drew her into starting ChargerHelp! From the beginning, she was less concerned with the hype cycle of startup trends and more focused on what she describes as “good business.” This allowed her to weather the storm of confusing and sometimes conflicting startup advice and the struggle to find a lead to eventually find herself in a super oversubscribed seed round.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
For the three years between her graduation from Y-Combinator to her splashy $50MM Series A raise from Sequoia, Christina Cacioppo and her company Vanta kept a low profile. Back in 2018, they had been working in a space few people were talking about around Silicon Valley. SOC2 compliance for startups hardly got people excited. Then, almost out of nowhere, came the announcement that Vanta had raised $50MM from Sequoia Capital. Christina shares how she got to this point and how much impact YC had on the process.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Funded Season 2 launches on July 27, 2021. Listen for a sneak preview into what to expect in this exciting new season.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Before starting Yac, Justin Mitchell had zero network in venture capital, didn’t know the insider terms, and was based out of small town Florida. None of this would point to someday raising a Series A round of funding from a top venture capital firm, but that’s what he did. The key he tells us was focusing on meeting the right people, building great product, and leaning on his thespian roots.
• Remember to grab the insights pack on this episode at fundedpod.com/yac
• If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Laura Del Beccaro, the Founder of Sora, looks like the most VC-backable, first time founder ever. She went to a top university, was a software engineer at a scaled startup, and even did a stint at a top VC firm. But after pulling together an all-star pre-seed round fairly quickly, Laura found out how difficult fundraising can be when you’re no longer a “hot deal” as she tried to raise her subsequent round. Laura had to dig deep to find the confidence to unlock VC dollars even while her company’s numbers were less than confidence inspiring.
• If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
• Remember to grab the insights pack on this episode at fundedpod.com/sora
This is Funded's first ever Friends & Family Round! With so many listeners asking questions about things they hear in episodes or about the fundraising market in general, we decided to launch this sister show to give more insights with a little help from our friends.
In this episode, Russ Heddleston the CEO of DocSend gives us a very unique view into 2020 trends via his company's recently released Startup Index Report. Russ describes how their report leverages aggregated and anonymized data of pitch deck activity to show things like how many investors need to be pitched before successfully raising. So much of 2020 was a crazy rollercoaster in fundraising and hearing how the data describe it was illuminating.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
From the start of our conversation with Sam Corcos from Levels, it was obvious there was too much sauce for just one episode. In this second half of our 2-part series, Sam begins by sharing details around a large key to his success - his very large cap table. Afterwards, we discuss specifics around his approach to attracting a $12MM seed round led by Andreessen Horowitz and how newcomers to the sport of fundraising might fare employing similar tactics.
We wrap this episode as we always do with a debrief, but this time include a special guest who had a front row seat to all the action.
Live Q&A on Clubhouse!! In response to the flurry of questions sent in by curious listeners wanting to know more about Sam (fundraising and otherwise), we've decided to host a live Q&A after show on Clubhouse. We'll be announcing the timing on Twitter so stay tuned!
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Much like the "secret master plan" for his company Levels, Sam Corcos openly talks about what he was able to decipher when it comes to the science of fundraising. This is exciting because fundraising approaches have traditionally been shared with tribal knowledge, feel-based language. In this conversation, Sam talks about how how he decided to follow his training as a scientist rather than rely on fundraising folklore. The result was a data driven process that has left even the most experienced investors speechless. Part 1 of this 2-part series focuses on how he built the base for his approach and features inspiration for 2021 goal setting.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Have you ever heard the advice “dress for the job you want not the one you have”? For Topper Luciani, that was tough advice to follow because it meant wearing an old t-shirt from Goodwill even while asking fancy venture capitalists for millions of dollars. In this episode, we hear how Topper learned the importance of being your authentic self while raising money and how he somehow managed to save his company after one of the most devastating curveballs in fundraising - a pulled term sheet.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Lindsay McCormick, founder of Bite Toothpaste Bits, wants you to know there are alternatives to taking venture capital. She created a multimillion dollar business and funded its growth almost entirely through customer purchases. This show is an honest discussion about the alternatives to venture capital. You’ll learn why even though Lindsay’s email inbox is full of investment offers, up till now she's turned them all away.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Investors like patterns. They’re either explicitly or subconsciously motivated to back businesses that look, sound, or feel familiar and comfortable. That’s why Isharna Walsh, founder of sexual wellness app Coral, had such a daunting task. For her, raising venture capital meant guiding investors through the uncomfortable task of talking about their sex lives and convincing them to back an unfamiliar profile, a minority woman with no ivy league degrees.
• Check out the DocSend report on the funding divide we reference here: https://www.docsend.com/index/the-funding-divide
• If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
Anthemos Georgiades, founder of Zumper, perfected his pitch the way most founders do: through trial and error. This show is about storytelling and all the elements that go into telling the perfect fundraising story. Anthemos deals with a difficult start to his tale having to manage “signaling risk” as well missteps with his deck and an overall lack of focus on the way to raising over $140 million dollars.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter
In this trailer, hear the background for what will be an amazing season of conversations that show what it takes to get a startup funded.
Intriguing quotes from the founders of Zumper, Fama, TRNDS, and more tease some of the topics that will be covered.
If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab my weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter