

#153 Season 12 Finale đ
24 snips Dec 12, 2024
Capella Kirst, founder of Gecko Materials, specializes in biomimicry-based adhesives, while Julia Dixon leads SAI, an AI platform aimed at democratizing college admissions. They discuss the fascinating intersection of innovation and nature, revealing how Gecko Materials harnesses gecko-inspired technology. The conversation also highlights the pivotal shifts in venture capital dynamics, reflecting on a robust funding journey and the emotional highs and lows of startup pitching. Listeners gain insights into educational reform and the role of technology in enhancing college access.
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Pitching Through Food Poisoning
- Capella Kirst pitched Gecko Materials while experiencing food poisoning.
- Despite this, she secured a lead investor, Kitty Hawk, after a demo at dinner.
Securing Kitty Hawk
- Capella Kirst secured Kitty Hawk as lead investor for Gecko Materials after an in-person meeting.
- The meeting involved demos and borrowing a bottle of wine for a trick.
Persistence in Follow-Up
- Follow up with people persistently, almost to the point of annoyance.
- Staying top-of-mind is crucial in the business world.