Something Ventured -- Silicon Valley Podcast 1517 Fund: The Maverick VC Betting on Teens to Outbuild Ivy Leaguers
14 snips
Oct 13, 2025 Danielle Strachman, co-founder of 1517 Fund and an educator with two decades in alternative education, teams up with Michael Gibson, a former philosophy PhD dropout and fellow co-founder, to discuss their contrarian approach to venture capital. They challenge the traditional higher education system, citing its flaws and the rising acceptance of non-degreed, often teenage founders. Their successful investments in companies like Luminar and Lambda Labs highlight the potential of young innovators. Michael also shares insights from his book, critiquing failing institutions and the diploma's role as a modern indulgence.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
From Tutoring To A Homeschool-Inspired School
- Danielle describes founding a San Diego charter school based on homeschooling principles and running it for years.
- The school serves ~400 students and influenced her lifelong-learning view.
Blocked Talent Motivated The Fund
- Danielle and Michael saw systemic barriers that blocked young non‑pedigreed founders from VC meetings.
- That realization motivated them to become VCs and create 1517 Fund.
Pulled Into The Thiel Fellowship
- Michael recounts meeting Peter Thiel and getting pulled into launching the Thiel Fellowship on day one.
- Danielle joined weeks later to organize what became a high‑profile program.
