Funded | How They Raised Millions
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.
Thu, April 03, 2025
TBC121: The Fundraising Equation [T(G) - T(TI)]
In this episode of The Backchannel, we break down a simple but powerful equation to help founders understand why some investor meetings turn into momentum—and others fall flat. We share a personal story that sparked the idea, then introduce the concept of Time Given (TG) minus Time to Interest (TTI) as a way to diagnose and improve your fundraising outcomes. If you're stuck wondering why some pitches connect and others don’t, this framework might give you a clearer path forward.
Thu, March 27, 2025
TBC120: The LP Problem No One Talks About
In this episode of The Backchannel , we start with a tweet from Peter Walker at Carta and dig into what it means when a big chunk of LPs in smaller funds are just regular individuals. If you’re raising a sub-$100M fund—or thinking about it—there’s some stuff here that might make you pause, maybe even rethink how you’re approaching your next raise. Founders should listen too, since this affects how and when capital actually makes its way into startups.
Thu, March 20, 2025
TBC119: The State of the Fundraising Market in 2025
Is pre-seed fundraising harder than ever? In this episode of The Backchannel , we break down how expectations for early-stage startups have shifted. Investors now demand more proof—traction, paying customers, and even product builds—before writing checks. Why? A mix of AI-driven productivity, global talent access, and the lingering effects of the post-ZIRP investment climate. If you’re a founder navigating this new reality, this episode will help you understand what it takes to stand out. Learn how to adapt, leverage AI tools, and make progress without investor capital. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve.
Tue, March 18, 2025
How Brian Sheng Closed a $112M Round for Aquaria (Brian Sheng / Aquaria - Ep 55)
Raising money isn’t just about convincing investors—it’s about surviving long enough to do it. Brian Sheng, founder of Aquaria, bootstrapped millions of his own dollars, ran relentless product-market fit experiments, and faced rejection after rejection before securing a $112M round to scale his breakthrough water technology. We dive into the toughest moments of his fundraising journey, the insight that finally got investors on board, and the mindset that kept him pushing forward. If you’re a founder struggling to raise capital, this episode is a must-listen.
Thu, March 13, 2025
TBC118: How to Create Urgency and Set Deadlines in Fundraising
Setting deadlines in fundraising can be a powerful tool—or a costly mistake. In this episode of The BackChannel , we break down how founders should think about creating urgency without scaring off investors. Learn why setting deadlines too early can backfire, how to structure a process that keeps investors engaged, and why a well-placed deadline can actually help VCs prioritize your deal. If you're raising money and wondering how to create momentum without turning investors away, this one's for you.
Thu, March 06, 2025
TBC117: What Are the Toughest Questions Asked When Pitching?
Investors love to test founders with tough questions—but what if you don’t know the answer? In this episode, we break down a real pitch meeting where a simple misunderstanding derailed the conversation. Learn how to handle tricky investor questions, when to ask for clarification, and why truly knowing your business makes all the difference.
Thu, February 27, 2025
TBC116: Finding the Perfect Blend of Data and Narrative
In this episode of the Back Channel, we explore the art of storytelling and the balance between hard facts and narrative. A founder’s question sparks a conversation about when to lean on data and when to let the story take center stage. Tune in for thought-provoking insights on crafting compelling narratives without getting bogged down in numbers.
Thu, February 20, 2025
TBC115: Are You on the Right Fundraising Path?
Most founders assume venture capital is the only way to fund their startup, but is it really the right path for you? In this episode of The Backchannel, we challenge the default fundraising mindset, breaking down why so many founders skip critical early steps. We'll shares insights on evaluating your real needs, exploring alternative funding options, and learning from those who’ve been in your shoes. Before you start pitching, make sure you’re not heading in the wrong direction.
Thu, February 13, 2025
TBC114: Holding Myself Accountable: 2025 Goals Check-In
In this episode of The Backchannel, I’m sharing some thoughts on goals for the year—what I’m focusing on, what’s working so far, and what still needs improvement. From business to personal challenges, I’m experimenting with new approaches and seeing where they lead. If you’ve set goals for yourself, I’d love to hear them. Let’s keep each other accountable!
Thu, February 06, 2025
TBC113: Convincing Investors During Slow Growth Phases
How do you convince investors to back you when your company’s growth has been stagnant? In this episode, we explore a question from a founder about breaking through that barrier. We’ll dive into what investors are really looking for, the importance of showing a shift or inflection point in your business, and how to craft a compelling story about the future. Plus, some thoughts on when it’s time to step back and rethink your approach before seeking investment.
Thu, January 30, 2025
TBC112: Fundraising Advantages... Are They Real?
In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason reflects on his own fundraising experience and breaks down the layers of what it really takes to secure investor commitments. Using his 2017 fundraise as a backdrop, he shares insights on the role of connections, the limits of those advantages, and why getting your foot in the door is just the beginning. Whether you're a founder navigating the challenges of raising capital or just curious about the process, this episode offers a candid look at the dynamics of building relationships, crafting a compelling story, and making your pitch count.
Tue, January 28, 2025
How Andrés Ornelas Vargas Closed a $2.2M Round for Verve Market (Andrés Ornelas Vargas / Verve Market - Ep 54)
In this episode, we sit down with Andrés Ornelas Vargas, founder of Verve, to discuss his journey from 150 investor conversations to closing a $2.2M round. Andrés dives into the challenges of breaking through preconceptions, the lessons learned from crafting the perfect pitch, and the personal story behind Verve's mission to revolutionize dietary management. He also shares how his analytical mindset both helped and hindered him during the fundraising process, and why persistence and adaptability ultimately made all the difference. A must-listen for any founder navigating the ups and downs of fundraising.
Thu, January 23, 2025
TBC111: The NEW Bar for Raising Pre-Seed Rounds
This episode of The Backchannel breaks down how the expectations for early-stage founders have shifted in the AI era. Inspired by a conversation with Jeff Bussgang—Harvard Business School professor and author of The Experimentation Machine—we explore what venture capitalists are looking for before investing. From validating your idea to leveraging AI and affordable global talent, the bar for getting to product-market fit is higher than ever. If you're building a startup or gearing up to raise funding, this episode lays out what it takes to stand out.
Thu, January 16, 2025
TBC110: Happy New Year Supercharging Tip!
In this New Year’s episode of The Back Channel , we talk about the power of simple outreach and why reconnecting with your network can be the best business development move for the year ahead. Drawing from personal stories and founder advice, we explore the impact of small, thoughtful gestures—like a quick “Happy New Year” note—and how they open doors for future opportunities, from fundraising to partnerships. Whether you're looking to raise capital or strengthen connections, this episode covers practical tips to kickstart your year with intention and momentum.
Thu, January 09, 2025
TBC109: Should You REALLY Be Raising From VCs?
In this episode of The Backchannel , we ask a critical question for founders: Should you actually be raising venture capital? We break down why most founders chasing VC money are doing it for the wrong reasons—whether it's validation, peer pressure, or simply not knowing other options. We also explore two common categories of founders who mistakenly pursue VC dollars and share practical ways to rethink your funding strategy. If you’ve ever considered raising venture capital, this episode will challenge you to reflect on your motivations and explore smarter, more sustainable ways to build and grow your business.
Thu, January 02, 2025
TBC108: The Power of Closing Dates in Fundraising
In this episode of The Backchannel , we break down the concept of closing dates in fundraising and why they’re a powerful psychological tool rather than a legal requirement. Learn how closing dates create urgency, push investors to commit, and help fundraisers organize their rounds effectively. Whether you're a startup founder or a fund manager, this episode will help you understand how to set and communicate closing dates to drive decisions and close your round with confidence.
Thu, December 26, 2024
TBC107: High Valuations vs. Simple Structure
In this episode of The Backchannel , we dive into the trade-offs between maximizing valuation and keeping deal terms simple. Whether you're a founder chasing a higher valuation or an investor protecting optics, adding deal structure can have long-term implications. Learn why simplicity often wins in the end and how complex terms like liquidation preferences, warrants, and dilution protections can create friction for future rounds. Tune in to hear why aiming for a clean deal benefits everyone in the long run.
Tue, December 24, 2024
How John Patrick Mullin Closed a $11M Round for MANTRA (John Patrick Mullin / MANTRA - Ep 53)
In this episode of Funded, we sit down with John Patrick Mullin, founder of MANTRA, to explore the realities of raising capital in the volatile world of crypto. JP shares his journey through early career pivots, the highs and lows of building a blockchain startup, and the challenges of launching tokens while navigating market skepticism. He opens up about raising $11M during one of crypto's toughest winters, managing investor relationships, and aligning token and equity strategies. Whether you're a founder curious about crypto fundraising or fascinated by the intersection of finance and innovation, this episode offers a raw and inspiring look at resilience and reinvention.
Thu, December 19, 2024
TBC106: Mastering Final VC Meetings
In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore how to prepare for final VC meetings, what investors are really looking for, and how to handle the pressure of tough questions. Whether you're a first-time founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you close the deal with confidence.
Thu, December 12, 2024
TBC105: How to Build Momentum During a Fundraise
In this episode of The Backchannel , we explore strategies to help a founder turn investor interest into momentum during a challenging fundraise. From avoiding reliance on a single viral moment to showcasing consistent progress, we discuss practical ways to create the perception of unstoppable growth. Whether you’re pitching now or planning your next round, this episode offers sharp, actionable insights for closing strong.
Thu, December 05, 2024
TBC104: Why Raise From Angels PART TWO
In this episode of The Backchannel , we talk about the realities of raising capital and why many founders may not be ready for venture funding. Instead, we explore the often-overlooked world of angel investing—who angel investors are, how to find them, and how to tailor your pitch to different types of angels. Whether you’re building a billion-dollar startup or a sustainable small business, this episode offers a practical playbook on how to secure early-stage funding.
Thu, November 28, 2024
TBC103: Why Founders Should Consider Raising From Angels
In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason unpacks why many founders struggle to raise capital in today’s cautious VC environment and offers alternative strategies to keep momentum. Learn how to tap into angel investors, leverage AI, and access global talent to build traction on a lean budget. Tune in to hear how you can turn obstacles into opportunities—and don’t miss the next episode, where Jason breaks down the art of pitching to angel investors.
Tue, November 26, 2024
How Ron Belldegrun Closed a $95M Series C for ByHeart (Ron Belldegrun / ByHeart - Ep 52)
In this episode, Ron Belldegrun, co-founder of ByHeart, shares how he raised over $300 million to transform the infant formula industry with cutting-edge science and a vertically integrated supply chain. Ron dives into his experience navigating the fundraising landscape, balancing the expectations of consumer and life science investors, and winning support for a mission-driven product in a highly regulated space. He talks candidly about the challenges of pitching a long-term vision, securing buy-in from top investors, and the critical role his existing investors played in scaling ByHeart’s groundbreaking approach. If you’re curious about how to raise significant capital while staying true to your mission and values, this is a must-listen.
Thu, November 21, 2024
TBC102: A Tale of Two Investors
In this episode of The Backchannel , we dive into a personal story that brings three critical fundraising lessons to life. Learn why early-stage fundraising is truly a numbers game, how your conviction in your vision can withstand rejection, and why giving value before seeking it can build powerful, reciprocal relationships. We’ll also explore how investor psychology plays a role in deal-making and how to use it to your advantage.
Thu, November 14, 2024
TBC101: The Importance of Jumping on Planes
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.
Thu, October 31, 2024
TBC100: Likability vs. Brilliance
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.
Tue, October 29, 2024
How Curtis Northcutt Closed a $25M Series A for Cleanlab (Curtis Northcutt / Cleanlab - Ep 51)
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. -- 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
Thu, October 24, 2024
TBC99: How Anxiety Ruins Warm Intros
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.
Thu, October 17, 2024
TBC98: GPs Have Trouble Raising Too
In this episode of The Backchannel, we’re talking about how VCs need to raise money too, not just startups.
Thu, October 10, 2024
TBC97: How to Build Awareness as a Founder the Right Way
In this episode, we dive into the concept of awareness for founders, focusing on how to effectively create it.
Thu, October 03, 2024
TBC96: How to Handle the Heat of an Investor Pitch
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.
Tue, October 01, 2024
How Teasha Cable Closed a $1M Seed Round for CModel (Teasha Cable / CModel - Ep 50)
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.
Thu, September 26, 2024
TBC95: Types & Motivations of Angel Investors
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.
Thu, September 19, 2024
TBC94: Unpacking Uncapped SAFEs
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.
Thu, September 12, 2024
TBC93: Valuations, SAFEs & Convertible Notes Explained
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.
Tue, September 10, 2024
How Michael Diesu Closed a $2.5M Seed Round for Revenue Roll (Michael Diesu / Revenue Roll - Ep 49)
In today's episode, we hear from Michael Diesu, co-founder & CEO of Revenue Roll on how he raised his $2.5M seed in one of the toughest markets Venture Capital has seen in years.
Thu, September 05, 2024
TBC92: Revisiting Post-Money vs Pre-Money Cap SAFEs
In this episode of The Backchannel, we revisit a fundamental topic that every founder should understand: post-money cap SAFEs and their implications.
Thu, August 29, 2024
TBC91: Investor Lists & Launching a Fundraise (HOW TO)
In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason dives into one of the most overlooked yet essential tasks in fundraising: building your target investor list.
Tue, August 27, 2024
How Christal Wang Closed a $2.2M Seed Round for Shimmer (Christal Wang / Shimmer - Ep 48)
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
Thu, August 22, 2024
TBC90: What Do Pre-Seed & Seed Rounds Look Like in This Market?
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.
Thu, August 15, 2024
TBC89: Why You Need Deadlines for Your Raise
In this episode of The Backchannel, the focus is on the critical role deadlines play in successful fundraising efforts.
Tue, August 13, 2024
How Orri Bogdan Raised a $2M Seed Round for VAE Labs (Orri Bogdan / VAE Labs - Ep 47)
In this episode, we explore the realities of fundraising with Orri Bogdan, Founder and CEO of VAE Labs.
Thu, August 08, 2024
TBC88: How To Show VCs Traction
In this episode of The Back Channel, we explore a critical topic for founders: showcasing traction to VCs.
Thu, August 01, 2024
TBC87: Answering Founders Questions About The Fundraising Process
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.
Tue, July 30, 2024
How Coco Brown Raised $2.5M in Venture Capital for Athena Alliance (Coco Brown / Athena Alliance - Ep 46)
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.
Thu, July 25, 2024
TBC86: How Do I handle Inbound Interest From VCs?
In this episode, we're tackling an important startup scenario: unexpected VC interest.
Thu, July 18, 2024
TBC85: 5 Controversial Fundraising Ideas
In this episode of The Back Channel, we dive into five thought-provoking strategies to elevate your fundraising game while challenging existing advice.
Tue, July 16, 2024
How Brian Raymond Raised $65 Million in Funding for Unstructured IO (Brian Raymond / Unstructured IO - Ep 45)
In this conversation we hear how Brian Raymond started Unstructured and how he was able to raise 3 rounds of funding, adding up to over $65M, in just two years.
Thu, July 11, 2024
TBC84: Why Smart People Struggle With Fundraising
In this episode of The Backchannel, the focus is on why intelligent individuals often struggle with pitching to investors.
Fri, July 05, 2024
TBC83: Answering Founders Questions About Pitch Decks
In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason answers 5 questions submitted by founders about pitch decks and pitching strategies.
Tue, July 02, 2024
How Analisa Goodin Raised Over $31 Million in Funding for Catch+Release (Analisa Goodin / Catch+Release - Ep 44)
Analisa Goodin, Founder and CEO of Catch+Release shares how she was able to raise three successful rounds of capital. Analisa shares the ups and downs as well as things to look out for before raising capital.
Thu, June 27, 2024
TBC82: Understanding VC Signals
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.
Thu, June 20, 2024
TBC81: Answering Your Questions About Getting Passed On
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.
Tue, June 18, 2024
The Story Behind Incognia's Pivot & How it Led Them to Raise $45.6M
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.
Thu, June 13, 2024
TBC80: Why Monthly Investor Newsletters Might Be a Bad Idea for Founders
In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason pushes back at the common practice of founders sending out monthly investor newsletter updates.
Thu, June 06, 2024
TBC: Is Silicon Valley Still the Place to Be for Startups? (TBC79)
In this episode of The Backchannel, the host Jason dives into an article from the Bay Area Council Economic Institute, which talks about Silicon Valley's current state, investment trends, and workforce changes.
Tue, June 04, 2024
The Story Behind Lex's $5.6M Seed Round (Jennifer Lewis / Lex - Ep 42)
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.
Thu, May 30, 2024
TBC: How Much Should I Raise? (TBC78)
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.
Thu, May 23, 2024
TBC: How I Work - For Easily Distracted Founders (TBC77)
In this episode of The Backchannel, the host launches a new series called "How I Work," exploring strategies for productivity.
Tue, May 21, 2024
The Journey of Ian Swanson Starting 3 Venture-Backed Successes (Ian Swanson / Protect AI)
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.
Thu, May 16, 2024
TBC: Why Every Founder Needs Third-Party Feedback (TBC76)
In this episode of The Backchannel, the host emphasizes the critical role of third-party feedback in the fundraising process for entrepreneurs.
Thu, May 09, 2024
TBC: Pro Tip for VC's - The Personal Newsletter (TBC75)
In this episode, the host shares the power of personal newsletters for VC's, shedding light on investor psychology and fundraising strategies.
Tue, May 07, 2024
How Nancy Xu Raised $10M for Moonhub (Nancy Xu / Moonhub - Ep 40)
Join us on a journey through the winding roads of entrepreneurship with our guest, Nancy Xu, the Founder & CEO of Moonhub.
Thu, May 02, 2024
TBC: How & Why to Get a Technical Co-founder (TBC74)
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.
Thu, April 25, 2024
TBC: Addressing Competition With Investors (TBC73)
In this episode of the Back Channel, we explore the importance of addressing competition during investor meetings.
Tue, April 23, 2024
The Story Behind SGNL Raising $22M in 2 Years (Scott Kriz / SGNL - Ep 39)
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."
Thu, April 18, 2024
TBC: Understanding VC Firms to Send the Right Signals (TBC72)
In this episode of The Backchannel, host Jason Yeh delves into the world of junior VCs and their path to becoming venture capitalists.
Thu, April 11, 2024
TBC: Dilution 101 For Founders (TBC71)
Dilution is one of those things that a lot of founders seem to 'lightly' understand.
Tue, April 09, 2024
The Story Behind Purple Metrics Closing Their $1.2M Pre-Seed Round (Guta Tolmasquim / Purple Metrics - Ep 38)
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.
Thu, April 04, 2024
TBC: Why the Pre-Seed Round Was Created... and How It's Changed (TBC70)
A lot of people tend to forget that the pre-seed round in venture capital is still relatively new.
Thu, March 28, 2024
TBC: Taking Advice From Charlie Munger (TBC69)
Have you ever heard of the quote "The safest way to get what you want is to deserve what you want"?
Tue, March 26, 2024
The Story Behind Atlys Raising $16.3M in Venture Capital (Mohak Nahta / Atlys - Ep 37)
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.
Thu, March 21, 2024
TBC: Should You Announce Your Fundraise? Pros vs Cons. (TBC68)
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.
Thu, March 14, 2024
TBC: The 7 Forms of Support You Need to Fundraise (TBC67)
The truth is - most first-time fundraisers underestimate all that goes into fundraising and the support you need to make it through.
Tue, March 12, 2024
Betting on Yourself: The Journey to Closing a $7.6M Seed Round (Stacy Edgar / Venteur - Ep 36)
There is one thing that almost every single entrepreneur has in common - the drive to change the world in some way, shape, or form.
Thu, March 07, 2024
TBC: Lead vs. Co-Lead Investors (TBC66)
In this episode of the back channel, the host delves into the intricacies of lead investors versus co-leads, breaking down the key distinctions and red flags to watch out for.
Thu, February 29, 2024
TBC: Pattern Recognition (TBC65)
Join us in this episode for an insightful discussion on pattern recognition in venture capital and its impact on underrepresented founders.
Tue, February 27, 2024
Builder Turned Fundraiser: Tractian's $45M Series B (Igor Marinelli / Tractian - Ep 35)
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.
Thu, February 22, 2024
TBC: The Use of Funds Slide (TBC64)
In this episode, the host tackles a common yet often misunderstood slide in pitch decks: the "use of funds" slide.
Thu, February 15, 2024
TBC: The Secret Value of the Email Appendix (TBC63)
In this episode of the Back Channel, Jason shares a fresh approach to email communication that's both personal and impactful.
Tue, February 13, 2024
Trailblazing the VC Industry (Joanna Strober / Midi Health - Ep 34)
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.
Thu, February 08, 2024
TBC: 3 Tips for Choosing Service Providers (TBC62)
In this episode of The Back Channel, we delve into a crucial post-fundraising topic: choosing service providers for your startup.
Thu, February 01, 2024
TBC: What's the Deal With Thesis-Driven Firms? (TBC61)
Join Jason Yeh on The Back Channel as he demystifies thesis-driven firms. They may not be as rigid as you think!
Tue, January 30, 2024
Paying the Peter Thiel Price (Dylan Beynon / Mindbloom - Ep 33)
Just like with any skill, there are beginners, and there are experts. Through practice and experience, the experts become exceptional at what they do.
Thu, January 25, 2024
TBC: Bouncing Back After Failure (TBC60)
In this episode, Jason shares a conversation with a founder who recently raised capital but had to close their startup.
Thu, January 18, 2024
TBC: Creating a Story That Can Be Shared (TBC59)
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.
Tue, January 16, 2024
A Wyoming Success Story ( Heather Shoemaker / Language I/O - Ep 32)
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.
Thu, January 11, 2024
TBC: Should Founders Try Again With Investors Who've Passed? (TBC58)
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!
Thu, January 04, 2024
TBC: Don't Fall Into The Builder's Trap (TBC57)
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!
Tue, January 02, 2024
Fundraising EQUALS Hard Work (Bobby Pinero / Levels - Ep 31)
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
Thu, December 28, 2023
TBC: The Similarities Between Real Estate and Fundraising (TBC56)
Have you ever compared fundraising with real estate? Once you do, you'll be shocked by their similarities.
Thu, December 21, 2023
TBC: The Need For Support in Fundraising (TBC55)
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! -- 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
Thu, December 14, 2023
TBC: CEOs Should Always Be the Ones to Pitch (TBC54)
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! -- 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
Thu, December 07, 2023
TBC: Explaining "The Money Round" (TBC53)
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! -- 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
Thu, November 30, 2023
TBC: Preparing For a Pitch Competition (TBC52)
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! -- 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
Mon, November 27, 2023
TBC: Data Rooms - What You Need to Know (TBC51)
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! -- 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
Thu, November 16, 2023
TBC: Pitching VCs Through a Screen (TBC50)
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! -- 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
Thu, November 09, 2023
TBC: Launch Before You're Ready (TBC49)
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. -- 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
Thu, November 02, 2023
TBC: How to Grow Your Network FAST (TBC48)
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. -- 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
Thu, October 26, 2023
TBC: Importance of CRM Systems When Fundraising (TBC47)
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. -- 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
Thu, October 19, 2023
TBC: Pre-seed vs. Seed - What's the difference? (TBC46)
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. -- 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
Thu, October 12, 2023
TBC: How to Handle Investor Rejection (TBC45)
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! -- 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
Thu, October 05, 2023
TBC: Preparing to Fundraise in a Down Market (TBC44)
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! -- 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
Thu, September 28, 2023
TBC: Build Your Reputation First (TBC43)
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 -- 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
Tue, September 26, 2023
Down by 20? Down But Not Out... (Tiffany Kelly / Curastory - Ep 30)
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/
Thu, September 21, 2023
TBC: Insights From My Trip to Brazil (TBC42)
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! -- 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
Thu, September 14, 2023
TBC: Work / Life Balance (TBC41)
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
Tue, September 12, 2023
Becoming the Pepsi to Indeed's Coke (Lucas Martinez / Talent.com - Ep 29)
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
Thu, September 07, 2023
TBC: The Role of Emotions in Pitching (TBC40)
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
Thu, August 31, 2023
TBC: What VCs Are Saying About AI Investing (TBC39)
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
Tue, August 29, 2023
Thriving With or Without Funding (Andrew Gazdecki / Acquire.com - Ep 28)
Andrew Gazdecki might have had some successful raises (totaling over $11M for his most recent venture) 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
Thu, August 24, 2023
TBC: Intros & Forwardable Emails (TBC38)
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. ---------- 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
Thu, August 17, 2023
TBC: Side Letter Warning (TBC37)
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
Tue, August 15, 2023
The Hustlers Journey (Thomas McLeod / Arkive - Ep 27)
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
Thu, August 10, 2023
TBC: Putting Project Management First (TBC36)
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
Thu, August 03, 2023
TBC: What Comes First - Calm Confidence or Investor Interest? (TBC35)
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
Tue, August 01, 2023
Breaking the Status Quo (Lolita Taub / Ganas Ventures - Ep 26)
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
Tue, January 31, 2023
TBC: Post Money Cap Safes have Anti-Dilution! (TBC34)
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
Tue, January 24, 2023
TBC: Post Money Caps vs. Pre-money Caps (an explainer) (TBC33)
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
Tue, January 17, 2023
TBC: Vulnerability in Fundraising (TBC32)
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
Tue, January 10, 2023
TBC: The Rollercoaster of Fundraising (TBC31)
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
Tue, January 03, 2023
TBC: Deck-Building: Note Cards (TBC30)
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
Tue, December 27, 2022
TBC: Chase or Be Chased? (TBC29)
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
Thu, December 22, 2022
Money Baggage in Fundraising (Shiloh Johnson / ComplYant - Ep25)
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
Tue, December 20, 2022
TBC: Rest (TBC28)
Founders heavily live in "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 important 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
Thu, December 15, 2022
TBC: How VCs are trained (TBC27)
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
Tue, December 13, 2022
TBC: The ability to be great is everywhere but resources are not (TBC25)
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
Tue, December 13, 2022
TBC: Decks as Appetizers (TBC26)
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
Thu, December 01, 2022
A Bubble valuation that's not so inflated? (Bubble / Emmanuel Straschnov - Ep24)
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 shines 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
Tue, November 29, 2022
TBC: The Importance And Fragility Of Credibility (TBC24)
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
Tue, November 22, 2022
TBC: Explaining "this isn't venture-backable" (TBC23)
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
Thu, November 17, 2022
Being The Pattern (Stax / Suneera Madhani - Ep23)
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
Tue, November 15, 2022
TBC: Why in-person meetings are so valuable (TBC22)
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
Tue, November 08, 2022
TBC: Eisenhower Matrix And Health Insurance (TBC21)
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
Thu, November 03, 2022
The Times They Are A-Changin (Flow Club / Ricky Yean - Ep 22)
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
Tue, November 01, 2022
TBC: VC Anxiety - Why am I seeing this deal? (TBC20)
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
Thu, October 20, 2022
TBC: Pitch The Circle (TBC18)
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
Thu, October 20, 2022
Finding The ‘Right’ Problem (Othership / Robbie Bent - Ep21)
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
Thu, October 20, 2022
TBC: The dirty secret of thesis-driven firms (TBC19)
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
Fri, October 07, 2022
Diverse Female Founders (Special Funded Ep)
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
Wed, May 04, 2022
TBC: Cold Intros vs. Warm Intros (TBC17)
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
Mon, May 02, 2022
TBC: The most famous pass ever (TBC16)
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
Fri, April 29, 2022
TBC: Rounds are going CRAZY fast... (TBC15)
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
Wed, April 27, 2022
TBC: Narrative strategies and why they're important (TBC14)
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
Mon, April 25, 2022
TBC: You should share your wins (TBC13)
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
Fri, April 22, 2022
TBC: FOMO - a helluva drug (TBC12)
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
Wed, April 20, 2022
TBC: The mistake of over-targeting investors (TBC11)
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
Mon, April 18, 2022
TBC: Red Flag - solution looking for problems (TBC10)
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
Fri, April 15, 2022
TBC: Warm up meetings with investors (TBC09)
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
Wed, April 13, 2022
TBC: The different roles at a VC (TBC08)
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
Mon, April 11, 2022
TBC: Fundraising like a salesperson (TBC07)
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
Fri, April 08, 2022
TBC: The benefits of intense fundraise prep (TBC06)
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
Wed, April 06, 2022
TBC: Should I stage my VC convos in tiers? (TBC05)
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. ---------- 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.
Mon, April 04, 2022
TBC: Who should set valuation? (TBC04)
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.
Fri, April 01, 2022
TBC: Why you should learn investor language (TBC03)
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. ---------- 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.
Wed, March 30, 2022
TBC: A thought on decks and appendices (TBC02)
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. ---------- 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.
Mon, March 28, 2022
TBC: Don't Be A Science Project (TBC01)
Are you a problem looking for a solution, or a solution looking for a problem? Pondering 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. ---------- 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.
Sat, March 26, 2022
TRAILER: What is The Backchannel (TBC)
Funded presents: The BackChannel. Tune in with Jason Yeh as he shares behind-the-scenes insights, helpful tips and tricks, and reactions to all things fundraising and startups - starting next week! Watch out for the first episode drop on Monday, March 28, 2022.
Thu, March 24, 2022
Announcement: What's New?
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!
Wed, December 08, 2021
Fundraising Holiday Blues (Grapevine / Emily Rasmussen - Ep20)
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
Tue, November 23, 2021
If at First You Don't Succeed (Humming Homes / Adeel Malick - Ep19)
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
Tue, November 09, 2021
The Culture of Preemptive Rounds (Neuro-ID / Jack Alton - Ep18)
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
Wed, October 27, 2021
Catching a Steady Wave 🏄 (SteadyMD / Guy Friedman - Ep17)
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
Wed, October 13, 2021
The Secret Science of Fundraising (REMIX: Levels / Sam Corcos - Ep16)
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
Tue, September 21, 2021
The Foreign Language of Fundraising (Cobli / Parker Treacy - Ep15)
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
Tue, September 07, 2021
Learning the Fundraising Dance (Nude Barre / Erin Carpenter - Ep14)
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
Tue, August 24, 2021
Investor Psychology 101 (Givingli / Nicole Emrani Green - Ep13)
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
Tue, August 10, 2021
Stayin' Alive 🎶(Omaze / Matt Pohlson - Ep12)
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
Tue, July 27, 2021
Networking hard or hardly networking? (HMBradley / Zach Bruhnke - Ep11)
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
Tue, July 27, 2021
From YC darling to fundraising powerhouse (Vanta / Christina Cacioppo - Ep10)
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
Tue, July 27, 2021
Good fundraising for a “good business” (ChargerHelp! / Kameale Terry - Ep09)
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
Fri, July 16, 2021
Funded Season 2 Trailer
Funded Season 2 launches on July 27, 2021. Listen for a sneak preview into what to expect in this exciting new season.
Tue, February 16, 2021
Acting like a master fundraiser (Yac / Justin Mitchell - Ep08)
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
Tue, February 02, 2021
Confidence is KEY...I think? (Sora / Laura Del Beccaro - Ep07)
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. Remember to grab the insights pack on this episode at fundedpod.com/sora
Thu, January 21, 2021
F&F Round: 2020 Funding Trends with Russ Heddleston of DocSend (FF01)
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. This 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 describes it is fascinating!
Tue, January 19, 2021
The Secret Science of Fundraising (Part 2 of 2 - Levels / Sam Corcos - Ep06)
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!
Tue, January 05, 2021
The Secret Science of Fundraising (Part 1 of 2 - Levels / Sam Corcos - Ep05)
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.
Tue, December 22, 2020
From rags to riches (Goodfair / Topper Luciani - Ep04 )
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.
Tue, December 08, 2020
A different type of funding and a different type of "no" (Bite / Lindsay McCormick - Ep03)
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.
Tue, December 08, 2020
How to tell a story worth $140 million dollars (Zumper / Anthemos Georgiades Ep01)
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.
Tue, December 08, 2020
Sex sells, but does it raise money? (Coral / Isharna Walsh - Ep02 )
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.
Thu, October 15, 2020
Coming Soon: Funded
Coming this December, Funded features some of the entrepreneurs you’ve always admired telling a story you haven’t heard before — how they raised millions in venture capital. Host Jason Yeh talks to Silicon Valley’s stars about how they got strangers to bet on their grand visions.
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