Episodes
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In this episode of Funds and Founders, we sit down with Ryan Atkinson, CEO and co-founder of Spacebar Visuals. Ryan shares his journey from working at an aquatic center to becoming a growth specialist at HubSpot, and eventually launching his own successful video production agency.
Learn how Ryan:
- Started multiple podcasts to network with entrepreneurs
- Built a 6-figure agency in less than a year
- Uses cold outreach to land high-value clients
- Manages a remote team and builds company culture
- Balances multiple projects and businesses
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or looking to scale your existing business, Ryan's insights on sales, marketing, and agency growth are not to be missed!
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction and Ryan's background
3:45 - The power of podcasting for networking and personal growth
7:22 - Transitioning from side hustle to full-time business
10:15 - Building an agency vs. creating a SaaS product
14:30 - Client acquisition strategies and outbound marketing
19:05 - Email marketing tactics and closing deals
23:40 - Pricing strategies and maintaining margins
28:15 - The challenges of running a service-based business
32:45 - Tech stack and tools for running an agency
35:20 - Book recommendations for entrepreneurs
38:30 - The importance of rereading books
42:33 - Why Ryan moved to Austin and who should consider it
46:37 - Exciting future technologies (AI video generation)
48:47 - Podcast post-production and marketing tips
53:42 - Closing thoughts and where to find Ryan online
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In this captivating episode of Funds and Founders, Catalin, co-founder and CEO of Linnify, joins us to discuss his journey as a serial entrepreneur and product development expert. Catalin shares valuable lessons from his experiences with previous startups and offers advice on avoiding "shiny object syndrome" while staying focused on long-term goals. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established founder, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for navigating the startup landscape. In this insightful conversation, we explore:
👉 Linnify's mission to simplify life through innovation
👉 The challenges of taking ideas from concept to product-market fit
👉Strategies for effective product validation and market research
👉Common pitfalls founders face when launching new products
👉The pros and cons of focusing on personal brand vs. company brand
Watch the full episode on @FundsAndFounders
#Entrepreneurship #ProductDevelopment #StartupAdvice #RemoteWork #innovation
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Introduction and Linnify's mission
00:04:29 Product validation and market research
00:11:58 Founder pitfalls and early startup experiences
00:24:52 Managing remote teams and company culture
00:27:33 Misconceptions about offshore development
00:32:08 Future plans for Linnify
00:39:52 Personal brand vs. company brand
00:43:24 Catalin's support system
00:45:02 Startup tech stack and tools
00:47:24 Discussion on recommended resources for entrepreneurs
00:48:05 Question from previous guest about entrepreneurial moment
00:49:33 Catalin's question for future guest
00:50:13 Host shares anecdote about previous guest's entrepreneurial moment
00:50:56 Discussion on the impact of first business check
00:51:17 Where to find Catalin online
00:51:42 Closing remarks and future plans
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Join us as we sit down with Hunter Burkey, Partner at Next Level Valet and CEO of Next Level Security. Hunter shares his incredible journey from living in his car to building two successful businesses in Austin, TX.
👉Hunter's early struggles and how he turned his life around
👉The birth of Next Level Valet and its rapid growth
👉Expanding into security services during COVID-19
👉Challenges of scaling a business and managing 300+ employees
👉Innovative employee engagement strategies
👉The importance of adaptability in entrepreneurship
Watch the full episode on @FundsAndFounders
#Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #AustinStartups #ValetService #SecurityBusiness
0:00 - Introduction of Hunter Burkey and his current roles
0:35 - Brief mention of failed business attempts
1:10 - Hunter's experience being homeless and living in his car
9:10 - Discussion about failed businesses and lessons learned
17:06 - Addressing fears and challenges in the early days of the business
19:07 - Major setback: losing a significant client and nearly shutting down
30:40 - Handling the challenge of parking 2300 cars per night
35:48 - Current size of the valet company (approximately 150 employees)
41:20 - Insight into company culture and employee communication
42:37 - Transition from valet services to starting a security company
47:30 - Introduction to Formula One events through valet connections
49:23 - Hunter's involvement with the F1 travel team
50:53 - Construction Security
55:08 - Scaling the company
1:00:00 - Closing remarks
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In this captivating episode of Funds and Founders, Nikhil, CTO and co-founder of Hylio, shares the inspiring journey of building an innovative drone company. From their initial focus on drone delivery to pivoting into agricultural applications, Nikhil reveals the challenges and triumphs of creating cutting-edge drone technology. Tune in to discover:
- The evolution of Hylio from a drone delivery concept to a leader in agricultural drone solutions
- Overcoming technical and regulatory hurdles in the drone industry
- The importance of perseverance and adaptability in entrepreneurship
- Insights into scaling hardware production and navigating complex sales processes
- The role of co-founders and support systems in startup success
Watch the full episode on funds and founders.
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In the latest episode of Funds and Founders, Jessi, founder of Downland, reveals how agrotourism and regenerative agriculture could revolutionize land management and food production. Discover how matching landowners with next-generation land stewards can restore landscapes and create sustainable business models.
Tune in to explore:
- The journey of building an AgTech startup from scratch
- How to leverage your unique strengths and network in entrepreneurship
- The crucial balance between mission-driven goals and venture capital expectations
- Strategies for validating your business model and preparing for fundraising
00:46 - Entrepreneurial journey
06:05 - what a land steward does and their responsibilities?
09:33 - Agrotourism
12:48 - Decision of taking passion to a full time job
16:48 - how did you get a hundred customer interviews?
20:52 - Regenerative farming
26:30 - Understanding the customer wants in a business
29:36 - Journey of a Solo founder
33:25 - Eliminating the uncertainty and challenges in the entrepreneur journey
34:47 - Crossfit journey
42:34 - Product Development Strategy for a Marketplace Startup
47:26 - Finding the right partners and right advisors
54:13 - Fundraising process
1:02:33 - Rapid fire question
1:09:15 - Question for the future Guest
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Mentions:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessi-roesch-rhymes-with-fresh/
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderspodcast.com
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Simran Singh narrates his entrepreneurial journey from his college days at Duke University to co-founding Zogo, a financial education platform which was eventually acquired by Peak Six. He elaborates on the challenges of early-stage startups, the pivoting of Zogo, and decision-making processes related to product development and market targeting. Simran also introduces his new venture, SwayStack, while providing valuable insights on growth, partnerships, and maintaining an entrepreneurial mindset. Additionally, the episode explores influential books like 'Poor Charlie's Almanac' by Charlie Munger, favorite tools and tech stacks like Notion, JIRA, GitHub, Figma, Google Drive, AWS, and Dynalist, and shares advice on resilience, support systems, and customer engagement. The conversation wraps up with anticipation of the next guest's insights into the role of mentors or advisors. If you’re looking for the motivation and insight needed to build a successful startup, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
• How will you know when to invest in an initial MVP?
• Calculating market size to predict scalability
• How working with private equity can be beneficial to your long term vision
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction
(01:31) - Simran’s Indian Family Influence
(04:40) - Challenges and Learnings from Zogo
(14:39) - Navigating Early MVPs
(29:25) - Balancing Risk and Stability
(35:50) - Zogo's Business Development Strategy
(36:23) - Sales and Marketing
(38:36) - Total Addressable Market (TAM)
(46:50) - Acquisition by Private Equity
(55:27) - Post-Acquisition Reflections and New Ventures
(59:12) - Rapid Fire Questions and Resources
(01:07:40) - Final Thoughts
Key Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Austin Texas, Abhinav Sinha, entrepreneurs, startups, venture capital
Mentions:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esimran/
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderspodcast.com
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Having been with SXSW for 35 years, Hugh Forrest, the Chief Programming Officer and Director of the Interactive Section of South by Southwest (SXSW), shares the origins and growth of Austin's largest conference and festival. He discusses the event's roots in 1987, modeled after the New Music Seminar in New York City, and its evolution into a major cultural and tech convergence. Hugh recounts the challenges faced in the early years, the festival's impact on Austin's ecosystem, pivotal moments like Johnny Cash's appearance and Twitter's launch, and the continued shift from a music-dominated event to an extensive tech and creative industry platform. The conversation also delves into the future of SXSW, including the upcoming challenges with the Austin Convention Center's reconstruction and the continuous adaptability of SXSW to reflect Austin's dynamic trends. Listeners will gain insights into the intricacies of event programming, the significance of perseverance in the startup ecosystem, and the broader economic and cultural impact of SXSW. If you’re looking for the motivation and insight needed to build a successful startup, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
• What makes South by Southwest different from other conferences?
• Making unconventional ideas a reality while turning something nobody wants or has value into value
• What does it take to host and grow a large, successful networking conference?
• Is AI in a hype cycle?
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - The Origins of SXSW
(01:48) - Challenges and Early Successes of SXSW
(05:17) - Hugh's Journey with South by Southwest
(08:24) - The Evolution of South by Southwest
(20:08) - SXSW’s Impact on Austin's Ecosystem
(27:43) - SXSW’s Programming and Structure
(39:17) - Future Changes for SXSW
(40:51) - Adapting to Austin
(42:38) - Emerging Trends and Technologies
(49:12) - Creating Successful Events
(56:29) - Importance of Human Connection
(59:25) - The Evolution of SXSW
(01:03:33) - Final Thoughts and Resources
Key Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Austin Texas, Abhinav Sinha, entrepreneurs, startups, venture capital, South by Southwest, Southby, SXSW
Mentions:
Website: https://www.sxsw.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hughforrest
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderspodcast.com
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Vikas is an experienced entrepreneur, advisor and the Managing Director of Frisco Analytics. In this conversation, he discusses the importance of selecting good advisors and how he identified gaps in the tech consulting space to grow his successful company later acquired by Huron. Vikas gives insights on how to build the right team, and sales strategies, navigate acquisitions and foster the right team culture. Finally, he shares his experiences with acquisition processes, incentive structures in consulting, managing multiple ventures and the value of direct feedback and the growth dynamics in the tech industry.
Key Takeaways:
• Choosing experienced advisors to save on finances and time
• Identifying what’s missing on the team and choosing members with the right culture fit
• Addressing incentive structures in consulting as a worker retention strategy
• Insights into the acquisition process for consulting teams
• Addressing the need for direct and honest feedback
• Navigating the complexities of managing multiple ventures
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction
(04:55) - Building a successful consulting business
(07:30) - Scaling and managing growth as an Investor
(09:05) - Proven incentive structures in the consulting space
(15:17) - What is product market fit?
(21:24) - The company acquisition journey and post-sale experience
(33:48) - The process of underwriting a deal
(35:21) - When does one need an exit strategy?
(39:17) - Deal flow, evaluation and selection criteria used to issue funding
(48:29) - Strategic investment roadmaps
Key Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Austin Texas, Abhinav Sinha, entrepreneurs, startups, venture capital, product-market fit, acquisition, team building strategy
Mentions:
Website: https://www.friscoanalytics.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vikas-punna-94b33216/
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderspodcast.com
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Vinay Chandrasekaran, founder of Frontek Solutions, Crayon’d, and Layerpath, shares his fascinating journey from learning HTML as a teenager in India to becoming the CEO of a successful SaaS company. Vinay delves into his entrepreneurial motivations, experiences at Zoho, and the essential role of community, mentorship, and resilience. He also discusses raising venture capital and emphasizes the importance of energy, passion, and mindset. Additionally, Vinay reflects on how his endurance sports endeavors have shaped his discipline and mindset and explores the idea of merging his tech expertise with sports training. The episode concludes with his thoughts on manifestation and public speaking. If you’re looking for the motivation and insight needed to build a successful startup, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
• What’re the first three steps a founder should take in building a startup?
• What does failing fast look like in the startup ecosystem?
• When will you know to raise venture capital?
• What is the role of a Chief Focus Officer?
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction
(03:18) - Building Frontex Solutions
(06:12) - The Role of Community in Entrepreneurship
(08:23) - Building a Founding Team
(10:32) - Joining Zoho
(14:36) - Travel and Personal Growth
(20:48) - Returning to Entrepreneurship
(25:57) - The First Thing Startups Should Do
(31:53) - Bringing an Idea to Market
(34:49) - The Importance of Founder Fit
(41:13) - Raising Venture Capital
(51:19) - Burnout and Support Systems
(53:41) - Closing Thoughts
Key Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Austin Texas, Abhinav Sinha, entrepreneurs, startups, venture capital
Mentions:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivinayc/
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderspodcast.com
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Alberto Silveira is a seasoned engineering leader with a diverse career spanning companies like IBM, Kaplan, Amplify, OnDeck, and currently, HireVue. He is also the author of the book, Building and Managing High Performance Distributed Teams. Alberto discusses the differences between leading small and large engineering teams, the importance of creating a positive engineering culture, and the nuances of hands-on leadership. He also shares his passion for distributed teams, the challenges of scaling team culture in a remote environment, and his philosophy on balancing immediate deliverables with long-term team health. Alberto reflects on his career journey, the lessons learned from writing his book on high-performance distributed teams during the pandemic, and offers advice on overcoming organizational challenges by taking an inclusive leadership approach.
Key Takeaways:
• How can you humanize work culture in a remote environment?
• How can you create focused teams to improve delivery and outcome?
• How the Iron Triangle allows founders to align product, engineering and design teams
• Identifying problems and suggesting solutions empowers team members and builds a strong team culture
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction
(04:40) - Hands-On Leadership as a CTO
(08:45) - Defining and Building Engineering Culture
(010:44) - Challenges of Scaling and Remote Work
(25:49) - Balancing Change and Delivery
(31:39) - Engineering vs Product Leadership
(37:27) - The Iron Triangle Concept
(39:18) - Importance of Design in Product Development
(43:06) - Building High-Performance Distributed Teams
(48:57) - Leadership and Team Motivation
(60:26) - Entrepreneurship is a Journey
Key Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Abhinav Sinha, Abhi, Austin Texas,, Venture Capital, Ecosystem, Culture, Company Values. Collaboration, Distributed Teams, Scalability, Engineering, Technical, Product, Leaders, Product-Driven, Early-Stage, SaaS
Mentions:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asilveira/
Mentions: Who: Building and Managing High Performance Distributed Teams, The A Method for Hiring by Geoff Smart and Randy Street, Lean Inception, Scale Up
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderspodcast.com
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Aaron Trahan, founder of Performance Mindset Coaching, discusses the fundamental differences between a coach and a mentor. Aaron shares his journey to becoming a coach, emphasizing the importance of having a coach for achieving personal and professional breakthroughs. The conversation delves into identifying signals for needing a coach, finding the right coach, and getting the most out of the coaching relationship. Aaron also highlights the value of structured systems like OKRs for setting and achieving goals, and the necessity of prioritizing tasks effectively. The episode concludes with actionable insights on how to incorporate coaching strategies to accelerate growth and navigate entrepreneurial challenges. If you’re looking for the motivation and insight needed to build a successful startup, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
• Why mimicking your mentor's journey can be a pitfall
• The advantages of professional coaching over traditional mentorship
• How to unlock your distinct potential
• Strategies to forge your own path to success in the competitive world
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:29) Aaron's Journey to Coaching
(03:39) Coaching vs. Mentoring
(05:55) Finding and Utilizing a Good Coach
(09:59) Knowing When You Need a Coach
(15:36) Breaking Through Personal Barriers
(33:06) The Importance of Accountability in Achieving Goals
(36:52) Leveraging Coaching
(40:29) The Power of Prioritization
(43:28) The Warren Buffett Priority Story
(48:26) Frameworks and Operating Systems
(56:03) The Importance of Morning Routines
(59:26) Conclusion
Key Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Austin Texas, Abhinav Sinha, entrepreneurs, startups, venture capital, coaching, mentoring, coach, mentor, goal setting, achievement. operating systems, routines
Mentions:
Website: https://performancemindsetcoaching.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-trahan-6135909
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderpodcast.com
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YJ Lin is a key player in the Austin startup ecosystem. He graduated from the University of Houston and is deeply involved with communities like Ascend Austin and the Executive Council Network. Currently, he is the Chief Fun Officer of York's Game Pieces, and Senior Program Manager at Dell for Startups. Over the past decade, YJ has orchestrated city-wide events across North America through nonprofit and corporate entities, focusing on uniting community leaders to build stronger, sustainable ecosystems. YJ specializes in startups, culture, and volunteerism, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and finding the right support systems for personal and professional growth. His dedication to fostering collaborative environments drives ecosystem development and connected human experiences. If you’re looking for the motivation and insight needed to build a successful startup, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
• Explicitly defining one’s role in growing a sustainable community
• Recognizing the importance of building strong communities and ecosystems for collaborations
• Finding balance through mapping out a life plan
• Why is it important to have the three builders, a Rainmaker, Conductor, and Expert in your business?
• How to leverage the 4 P’s of Mentoring to foster your community
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction
(05:05) - Who is YJ Lin?
(07:30) - Challenges and Realizations in an Entrepreneur’s Journey
(12:21) - Community and Ecosystem Building
(14:03) - What a Harvard Study Can Teach You About Happiness
(25:27) - What’s All of This For?
(30:32) - YJ’s Big Realization
(32:38) - The Power of Community Collaboration
(37:07) - Challenges in Building Community Ecosystems
(43:56) - The Importance of Mentorship and Support Systems
(45:55) - The 4 P’s of Mentoring
(49:44) - What Type of Builder Are You?
(50:56) - What Makes Us Human?
Key Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Abhinav Sinha, Abhi, Austin Entrepreneurs and Founders, Venture Capital, Ecosystem, Community, Relationships, Sustainable Community, Community Building, Leverage, Collaborative Visionary
Mentions:
Website: https://yjlin.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yjlinco/
Mentions: The Paterson LifePlan Process by Peter Drucker and Tom Paterson, Austin Stars Facebook group, Born To Build (Jim Clifton and Sangeeta Bharadwaj Badal)
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Jeff Eversmann is an experienced design engineer, fractional CFO at Miranti Growth, and GP at Longview Tech Ventures. Drawing from his career across various high-level roles, Jeff explains the continuum from product market match to alignment and finally to fit. He discusses examples, especially Uber's market strategy, and elaborates on how early-stage founders should approach achieving and measuring product market fit. He shares insights into venture capital dynamics, emphasizing the importance of founder-investor compatibility, effective fundraising strategies, and the critical role of executive coaching.
Key Takeaways:
• Signals, tools, data and metrics early-stage founders can use to assess product-market fit
• Importance of achieving customer validation before Series A funding
• Why balancing investor advice with the founder's vision is crucial
• How founders can effectively network and use their connections for successful fundraising
• Ways to determine pivot points and avoid distractions during a product’s life cycle
• Understanding venture capital and early-stage investment dynamics
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction
(00:50) - Defining Product Market Fit
(05:25) - Product Market Fit Challenges for Early-Stage Founders
(08:20) - Customer Discovery and Validation
(09:58) - Raising Series A and Selecting Suitable Marketing Channels
(13:35) - Dealing with Investor Pressure in Decision-Making Processes
(16:45) - Longview Tech Ventures Investment Criteria
(21:46) - Challenges of First-Time Founders
(23:30) - Market Sizing and Unit Economics
(28:32) - Raising a VC Fund
(32:50) - Understanding Internal Product Updates
(33:14) - Raising Funds and Communicating with VCs
(38:59) - Importance of Founder-VC Alignment
(42:17) - Dealing with Awkward Pitching Moments
(47:24) - Building Startups and Raising Capital
Key Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Abhinav Sinha, Abhi, Austin Entrepreneurs and Founders, product-market fit, customer validation, early-stage investments, Series A
Mentions:
Website: https://www.merantigrowth.com/
https://www.longviewtechventures.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffeversmann/
Mentions: War of Art by Steven Pressfield, The Mom Test by Rob Fitzpatrick, The Innovator’s Solution by Clayton Christiansen
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderspodcast.com
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Ben James and Dylan Mankey from Tubular Networks discuss their journey from their initial meeting at HomeAway to co-founding Tubular Networks. Ben shares his extensive background in product management, having worked at companies such as National Instruments, VRBO, and Magic Leap, while Dylan talks about his engineering leadership roles with experience at companies like Expedia, HomeAway, and MapMyFitness. The conversation delves into how they decided to partner up, overcoming co-founder conflicts, and the importance of the right dynamics in a startup. Ben and Dylan share insights on building a prototype, gaining their first customer, and validating their idea. They describe Tubular Networks' mission to decarbonize the transportation of goods through a city-scale infrastructure of robotic delivery systems. They also discuss the challenges of hardware startups, the importance of failing fast and learning quickly, and the support systems that have helped them, including the significant influence and advice from their spouses.
Key Takeaways:
Ways to demonstrate VR concepts before creation to impress first customersNegative impact on health from working excessively and relentlessly pursuing opportunitiesChallenges with pitching solutions to unacknowledged problemsOvercoming legal obstacles in the hardware businessBalancing opportunities with big companies and focusing on smaller contracts for stabilityIntentionally choosing a team that’s comfortable learning new skills and making decisionsAdvantages of using off-the-shelf components for prototyping to reduce the cost of learningEmphasis on the importance of viewing failures as opportunities to gather fresh insightsImportance of balancing carbon footprint considerations with scalability and societal impactPromoting a culture of respect at all decision-making levels for strong founder dynamicsRecognizing the importance of humility and clear feedback to build a strong teamBoldness to seek input from various trusted sources at critical stages of growthKey Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction(06:27) The Vision and Mission of Tubular Networks: Revolutionizing Delivery(07:40) Validating the Vision: From Prototype to First Customer(20:37) Navigating the Startup Journey: Challenges, High Points, and Learning(25:57) The Art of Building a Hardware-Software Startup(30:25) Innovative Cost-Saving Measures and the Spirit of Jugaad(32:32) Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool(34:53) Long-Term Vision for a Sustainable Future(38:39) Navigating the Challenges of Decarbonization(45:05) Co-Founder Dynamics and Decision-Making(48:46) Leveraging Technology and Advisor Insights(52:25) Support Systems and Advice for EntrepreneursKey Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Abhinav Sinha, Abhi, Austin Entrepreneurs and Founders, Venture Capital, Untold Stories, robotic delivery, tubular networks, Letter of Intent (LOI), decarbonization, carbon footprint, prototyping, Robot Operating System (ROS), Co-Founder dynamics
Mentions:
Website: https://www.tubular.network/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-p-james/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-mankey/
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Mark Fallows is a seasoned advertising professional and founder of Fabrica Collective. He is also a creative collective based in New York, now operating from Austin. Mark shares his early career journey in advertising, including his roles at Oracle and McCann, and his motivation behind founding Fabrica Collective. He emphasizes the importance of lifelong skill development, drawing on Michelangelo’s philosophy of never stopping learning. Mark delves into current learning pursuits such as AI's exponential growth, navigating the internet more effectively, and understanding the vital role of community in the face of modern challenges like social media and AI. Reflecting on various global experiences from living in Scotland to Iran, Mark discusses the community's evolving nature, the impact of the pandemic on community dynamics, and the reimagining of neighborhoods post-COVID. From exploring the histories and mechanics behind technology and creativity to engaging deeply with the idea of building and nurturing communities locally while being globally connected, Mark provides rich insights into adapting and thriving in a rapidly changing world. The conversation also touches on the challenges and insights from running a podcast, 'The Impossible Network', aimed at storytelling and building connections through serendipitous encounters.
Key Takeaways:
Embracing life-long learning as an opportunity for continuous growth and self-discoveryUnderstanding the technological impact of AI, biotech and IoT convergence as it transforms work and life cyclesReconnecting to build community and collaborate effectively post-pandemicReimagining community in a global-local balance post-industrial era, focusing on human connectionNavigating the challenges of launching a startup too soonEmbracing serendipity by taking unconventional paths to open unexpected opportunitiesUse of podcasts as a means to build trust, community and meaningful relationshipsExploring various creative avenues which lead to engaging with skilled professionals and holding enriching conversationsHow maintaining a positive mindset during a career setback can have transformative outcomesKey Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction(01:34) The Philosophy of Lifelong Learning(02:48) Exploring Current Learning Curves: AI, Internet, and Humanity(05:07) Redefining Community in the Modern World(09:36) Comparing Community Vibes: New York vs. Austin(14:57) The Journey from Advertising to Founding Fabrica Collective(22:32) Navigating the Challenges of Running Fabrica Collective(28:09) Lessons Learned from Pundit Club to Fabrica(33:46) The Genesis and Evolution of The Impossible Network Podcast(42:03) The Impact of Personal Stories in Podcasting(48:53) The Power of Networking Through Podcasting(53:10) Support Systems and Personal Growth(56:20) Recommendations for Aspiring Entrepreneurs(01:03:50) Reflecting on What Makes Us HumanKey Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Abhinav Sinha, Abhi, Austin Entrepreneurs and Founders, Venture Capital, Untold Stories, The Impossible Network, General Purpose Technology (GPT), story telling, community building
Mentions:
Website: https://fabricacollective.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markfallows/
Resources: 1, 000 True Fans blog post by Kevin Kelly, Wait but Why Blog by Tim Urban, Viktor Frankl’s book - Man's Search for Meaning
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Stacey Stubblefield is a former entrepreneur in residence at Curious Minds Inc, who co-founded TeleSign, a company born out of the incubator. Stacey shares her unconventional journey from considering law school to embracing technology and entrepreneurship, leading to the creation and eventual acquisition of TeleSign by BICS. Stacey discusses the challenges and milestones of growing TeleSign, from early idea testing to hitting significant revenue milestones and navigating the complexities of selling the company. The conversation covers the importance of choosing the right co-founders, the impact of mentorship and advisory roles, and insights into the current startup ecosystem. Stacey also touches upon her current stealth company project and advises aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the value of resources like AWS, social media platforms for networking, and the necessity of staying informed and adaptable in the tech industry.
Key Takeaways:
Embracing unconventional paths as an entrepreneurImportance of ideation and experimentation in early startup stagesLearning from incubator experiences to shape future business strategiesThe process of identifying an idea with the potential for successChoosing co-founders with complementary skills for a balanced teamHow to transition smoothly from incubator to independent operationsOvercoming scaling challenges and celebrating growth milestonesUtilization of modern tools and networking to stay informed and adaptableKey Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction(01:56) From Law School to Tech Incubator: A Pivot into Entrepreneurship(07:41) Navigating the Startup World: Lessons from the Incubator(12:01) Founding TeleSign(16:21) Co-Founder Dynamics and the Importance of Complementary Skills(19:34) Transitioning from Incubator to Independent Company(22:56) Scaling Challenges and Milestones in TeleSign's Journey(26:59) Rethinking Leadership and Decision to Sell(31:29) The Complex Journey of Selling a Company(34:23) Navigating the CFIUS Process and Challenges(36:40) Post-Sale Reflections and Adjusting to New Roles(40:44) Exploring Identity Fraud and Generative AI Challenges(45:20) Leveraging Modern Tools and Networking for Success(53:06) ConclusionMentions:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacystubblefield/
Key Topics Discussed:
Funds and Founders, Abhinav Sinha, Abhi, Austin Entrepreneurs and Founders, Venture Capital, Untold Stories, C Corp Registration, Quantum Encryption, Tech Company Acquisition
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounder.com
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Sky King shares his journey from being a digital marketing specialist to founding his own company, Modern Stoa. King discusses his early career, his experiences with companies like Onnit and Aubrey Marcus, and his transition into the podcasting world with creations like 'Creator of Curiosity' and 'Sky King's Mental Playground.' He dives into the importance of media incentives aligning with societal benefits, leveraging capitalism for change, and his observations on the media's evolving landscape. Additionally, Sky offers insights into podcast monetization, his approach to representing podcasters in ad deals, and the potential for NFTs and new monetization models in podcasting. Throughout, King emphasizes the significance of creating sincere and impactful media, leveraging technology for better content monetization, and his mission to build a society where media serves the audience's best interest.
Key Takeaways:
The importance of aligning media incentives with societal benefitsThe evolution of advertising and its impact on society and the changing landscape of mediaBridging the gap between podcasters and advertisersWays to unlock new monetization opportunities in the media industryInsights on understanding audiences and implementing effective marketing strategiesBrand strategies in podcast advertising, the unique challenges and opportunities facedThe future of podcasting and innovative monetization strategies to enhance content creationThe power of podcasts and content creation in building audience connectionsThe intersection of capitalism, media, and society, and the need for impactful, sincere contentKey Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction(01:58) Exploring the Impact of Media and Advertising on Society(06:18) Modern Stoa: Bridging Podcasters and Advertisers(15:02) Strategies for Brands and Podcast Audience Engagement(24:33) The Future of Podcasting and Content Creation(28:22) The Power of Podcasting and Audience Connection(30:17) Innovative Monetization Strategies for Podcasts(30:34) Exploring the Potential of NFTs in Podcasting(36:39) Building a Community and Future with Podcast Listeners(38:11) The Evolution of Media Consumption and Its Future(47:40) Personal Insights and Advice for Aspiring Podcasters(52:08) Closing Thoughts on Creating Impactful MediaMentions:
Website: https://modernstoa.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sky-king-13394b3a/
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderspodcast.com
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Soundarya Balasubramani, an NIT Trichy and Columbia graduate, writer, and founder of Unshackled.club, details her journey from India to the U.S. Her career shifts from Salesforce to entrepreneurship, and even ventures into writing, including her blog Curious Maverick and books 'Admitted' and 'Unshackled'. The discussion spans her motivations, the importance of writing in her professional growth, insights into self-publishing, navigating U.S. immigration, and her latest decision to step back from Unshackled.club to focus on writing. Soundarya provides valuable advice for immigrant entrepreneurs and shares her vision for her next writing project, leveraging her experiences and challenges to guide and inspire others in their personal and professional journeys.
Key Takeaways:
The persistence and resilience it takes to navigate the hardships of U.S. immigrationWhat to consider when applying for an O1 visaThe power of writing a journal for clarity of thought, problem-solving and emotional processing and the app that’ll make it easy to maintainUnderstanding the book writing process and marketing as a self publishing authorHow to strategically use social media to market yourselfThe act of writing on paper, particularly journaling, serves as a powerful tool forKey Timestamps:
(00:00) Meet Soundarya: A Journey from India to Authorship(03:10) The Power of Writing: From Personal Therapy to Professional Tool(08:21) The Transition from Corporate to Creative: Soundarya's Leap into Authorship(15:51) Navigating the Complex World of Self-Publishing and Editing(21:30) The O-1 Visa Saga: A Tale of Persistence and Resilience(26:29) A Return to Roots: Soundarya's Time in India and Reflections on Life(30:27) Comparing the Self-Publishing Journeys of 'Admitted' and 'Unshackled'(38:30) Immigration: From Application to Approval(47:47) Transitioning Roles: From Founder to Writer(51:50) Support Systems and Startup Tech Stack: A Founder's Toolkit(56:42) Final Thoughts and Future ProjectsKey Topics Discussed:
Journaling, author, legal immigration system, ONA visa, O1 visa, H1B, L1, EB2 National Interest Waiver, RFE, Unshackled
Mentions:
Website: https://www.unshackled.club/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soundarya-balasubramani/
Unshackled: A Practical Guide For Highly-Skilled Immigrants To Thrive In The United States
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderspodcast.com
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Chris De Ayala, a UT McComb School of Business graduate working in banking, specifically in venture debt at the Bank of California shares insights into the role of venture lending, emphasizing its value to VC-backed startups by offering non-dilutive capital to extend their runway post-equity rounds. He details the ideal timing for startups to seek venture debt, the factors influencing the amount of debt a startup can secure, and the importance of the relationship with VC firms in this process. The discussion also covers the changing landscape of venture debt, the impact of recent economic shifts on startups and investments, and the evolution of the Austin startup ecosystem. Chris highlights the negotiation aspect of venture debt terms, the strategic use of venture debt for growth without dilution, and the bank's perspective on venture debt as a tool for deposit growth and long-term customer relationships.
Key Takeaways:
Providing debt solutions to VC-backed startupsRole of venture debt as a non-dilutive capital source for early-stage companiesIdeal timing for seeking venture debtRelationship between equity round size and available venture debtBank's criteria for assessing startups with an emphasis on investor syndicate and runwayHow to negotiate venture debt termsGrowth of venture debt spaceCompetition between traditional banks and neo-banksTrends and changes in the Austin startup ecosystemImportance of building networks in the venture financing industryMentions:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-de-ayala-39976a125/
Check out the Funds & Founders Community:
Reach out to Abhi at [email protected]
Website: fundsandfounderspodcast.com
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Jake O'Shea, currently a Principal at Antler in Austin, delves into his rich background in the startup ecosystem. With experiences ranging from director roles at Capital Factory to mentoring at accelerators, Jake discusses the vibrant startup ideas and trends in Austin, emphasizing the ubiquitous role of AI in modern software development. He sheds light on Antler's industry-agnostic approach to investing, focusing on founder potential over specific sectors. Jake also touches upon the critical importance of knowing your customer base and making decisions regarding value propositions, rather than jumping straight into product development. He discusses the nuances of venture capital, offering insights into the dos and don'ts of early-stage fundraising and the significance of founder-market fit. Jake highlights emerging AI applications, from personalized learning to headless applications, and the potential for AI to redefine software interactions through natural language processing. A must-listen episode for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the intersections of AI, startups, and venture capital.
Key Takeaways:
Conviction and thorough customer research are key to creating value as an entrepreneurBuilding a supportive community fosters collaboration and growth for entrepreneurs in AINetworking and Fundraising Insights for Founders to create valueUnderstanding investor risks and founder execution capabilities can influence funding decisionsInvestors prioritize founder execution, building conviction amidst market and tech risksInvesting in post-product market fit fuels growth and helps seize adjacent opportunities for expansionMeasuring product success through retention and engagement validates the right value propositionFuture tech and how they will reshape interactions and revolutionize tech engagementDe-risking your startup: market, technology, and executionThe future of AI: personalized learning and verticalized softwareMentions:
Website: https://www.antler.co/
Website: https://jakeoshea.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-oshea/
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