Legendary VC investor Brad Feld explains why “giving first” (his new book) is the key to building resilient founders, impactful startups, and thriving startup communities—especially in climate tech and turbulent times.
🎧 Episode Summary
Brad Feld, co-founder of Foundry Group and Techstars, joins Dr. Chris Wedding to discuss why his “Give First” philosophy—mentorship without expectation of immediate return—matters more than ever. Brad shares lessons from four decades as a VC investor, board member, and mentor. These include how startup founders can survive near-death experiences, embrace long time horizons, and create positive-sum relationships that outlast cycles of hype, political polarization, and shifting government priorities.
Brad dives into the difference between being a mentor, advisor, coach, and investor—and why setting boundaries and focusing on the long arc of reputation and karma is critical for mental health and sustained impact. He also shares insights from his latest book, Give First, and how the practice of non-transactional mentorship can unlock new opportunities and durable communities in climate innovation.
🔑 Key Takeaways
Private sector innovation—and founders with grit—are more important than ever for climate solutions, especially as government support and data become more fragile.
Most startups fail, but even failures drive learning, progress, and future breakthroughs—long-term impact compounds through experimentation.
The best founders are resilient, adaptive, and motivated by mission, not just market conditions; they see setbacks as “type 2” fun (enjoyable in hindsight).
“Give First” means engaging in relationships without upfront transactional expectations—positive outcomes flow back in unpredictable ways over time.
Mentorship is distinct from advisory, coaching, or investing: mentors give with no guarantee of return; advisors and coaches are transactional; investors have skin in the game.
Healthy boundaries are essential: founders and mentors must balance generosity, mental health, and financial realities.
Community building in climate tech—and beyond—relies on trust, shared learning, and a willingness to help without keeping score.
Reputation and “karma” accrue over decades, not quarters; the most satisfying business relationships are long-term, peer-based, and founded on authenticity and empathy.
Brad’s Mentor Manifesto (from Techstars) and the concept of “entrepreneurial tzedakah” (righteous giving) offer frameworks for effective, fulfilling mentorship.
Giving first in business isn’t altruism; it’s a philosophy for creating positive-sum games in a world fixated on transactions.
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🎙️ About the Host
Dr. Chris Wedding is a CEO coach, investor, serial founder, board member, professor, and occasional monk. Follow daily insights on climate tech startups and leadership on LinkedIn:
👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherwedding
