This week on Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by venture capitalist and bestselling author Ben Wiener to unpack the art and challenges of startup pitches. With only two out of ten startups likely to succeed, Ben shares how founders can stand out using his H.E.A.R.T. framework: Hypothesis, Enormous Stakes, Alternatives, Radically Different, and Team.

From his journey in law and venture capital to writing Fever Pitch, Ben offers practical insights into what investors really want to hear and why storytelling matters as much as strategy. He explains how anticipating questions, neutralising competition early, and presenting a differentiated solution can make all the difference.

Beyond pitching, Ben emphasises the value of active reading, empathy, and paying it forward - reminding us that business success is often rooted in doing the right thing for others.

Whether you’re a startup founder, a leader refining your communication, or simply curious about what makes ideas resonate, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable tools.