In this episode of Turpentine VC, Erik Torenberg sits with Rebecca Kaden, Managing Partner at Union Square Ventures. They discuss USV's partnership-driven model, different venture strategies, whether automation in venture is imminent, and what USV looks for in investors. If you need an ecommerce platform, check out our sponsor Shopify: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period.

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RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist

Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more.

Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj

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Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of ALL eCommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries.From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/momentofzen

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Join our free newsletter to get Erik's top 3 insights from each episode: https://turpentinevc.substack.com/

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X / TWITTER:

@rebeccakaden (Rebecca)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@Turpentinemedia

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(00:51) Understanding Union Square Ventures' Approach

(05:58) The Role of Technology and Data in VC

(10:32) The Importance of Partnership Models in VC

(18:07) Sponsors: NetSuite | Shopify

(20:43) Generational Transition in Venture Capital Firms

(25:16) Anatomy of a Partner Meeting

(29:20) The Power of Ideas and Thesis Development

(36:38) The Future of Virtual Learning

(43:37) Investing in the Trucking Industry

(45:48) Exploring Opportunities in the Fertility Space

(50:16) The Role of Networks in Investment

(51:01) Advice for Emerging Managers

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This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.

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