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Top Investor Advice for New Venture Founders

Fundraising
June 24, 2025
Leading investors share key tips for those starting in VC.
Topics discussed in the episode:
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What mindset is critical for startup founders to achieve success?
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What qualities are essential for startup founders in building successful ventures?
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In an increasingly remote world, how important is in-person interaction for startup success?
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How important is hands-on experience when building a startup team?

What mindset is critical for startup founders to achieve success?

Persistence is a critical mindset for startup founders facing challenges on their journey.

\"Don't quit.\"

- Persistence is key; overcoming obstacles requires determination.- Success often comes to those who keep going despite difficulties.- Adopt a never-quit attitude to navigate the ups and downs of startup life.

What qualities are essential for startup founders in building successful ventures?

Passion and curiosity are essential for startup founders aiming for success.

\"You have to be led by complete natural curiosity. You have to want to meet all the founders. You have to want to hear all the ideas.\"

- Be driven by curiosity to explore new ideas.- Immerse yourself fully; it's more than a full-time job.- Success comes from passion, not quick profits.

In an increasingly remote world, how important is in-person interaction for startup success?

Strong relationships are crucial for startups, and in-person interactions can significantly impact team success.

\"So many of the young folks today want to be remote, and I think the best ones in the future will have engaged more in person... face to face reps matter.\"

- Meeting in person strengthens relationships with partners and team members.- Face-to-face interactions improve communication and collaboration.- Prioritize in-person meetings when possible.

How important is hands-on experience when building a startup team?

Building a successful startup requires hands-on experience and learning from real-world situations.

\"This is an apprentice business, and you need to find either a team or a person that will give you the opportunity to get reps.\"

- Hands-on experience (\"reps\") is invaluable for founders.- Engaging in full projects from start to finish builds practical skills.- Seek mentors or teams that provide real-world learning opportunities.