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The Full Ratchet (TFR): Venture Capital and Startup Investing Demystified
465. The Villain Test, Lessons from an OG at Sequoia, Spotting Superstars at Seed, Mastering Follow-on, and the Future of Consumer Tech (Craig Shapiro)
Jan 13, 2025
Craig Shapiro, Founder and Managing Partner at Collaborative Fund, discusses mission-driven investing and the rise of personalized consumer products. He dives into the 'Villain Test' for evaluating product viability and shares insights on innovative hiring strategies for startups. Shapiro also addresses the delicate balance between data privacy and consumer convenience, emphasizing the need for trust between founders and investors. With a decade of successful investment strategies, he highlights the importance of long-term thinking in venture capital.
44:30
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Quick takeaways
- Craig Shapiro emphasizes the importance of mission-driven founders in balancing profitability with positive societal impact, challenging traditional venture capital paradigms.
- The future of consumer products will increasingly prioritize personalization, reflecting consumers' desire for tailored solutions and engaging experiences over generic offerings.
Deep dives
Tovala's Growth and Partnership with Costco
Tovala has experienced significant growth, achieving profitability for three consecutive months and surpassing nine figures in revenue. The company is excited about its new retail partnership with Costco, which is seen as an ideal match for its meal kit offerings. Tovala is currently on a promotional tour across the country, allowing consumers to sample its meals. The success stems from their focus on customer convenience, offering high-quality meals that can be prepared in just minutes.
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Discover
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Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode