#037 - Kyle Harrison on Investing in People, Talent Vortexes, Writing, & Tradition vs Progress
Oct 4, 2023
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Kyle Harrison, General Partner at Contrary Capital and writer, discusses investing in people, talent vortexes, tradition vs progress, building systems, and writing.
Intense curiosity is the key to success for individuals and companies, driving continuous learning and knowledge seeking.
Investors and entrepreneurs should focus on building companies that are not solely dependent on massive amounts of capital, questioning the hype surrounding emerging technologies.
Being people-centric and creating products that serve individuals throughout their journey in the startup ecosystem is crucial for venture funds, such as Contrary Capital.
Deep dives
Intense Relentless Curiosity as the Key Characteristic for Success
The number one characteristic for both individuals and companies that leads to success is intense relentless curiosity. This curiosity drives people to collect multiple data points and continuously seek new knowledge and understanding. The speaker highlights the irony of technological advancement dismissing religion and other areas of knowledge. The importance of creating memories and artifacts that force individuals to change their behavior and identity is also emphasized.
Recognizing Hype Cycles and Investing Wisely
The conversation shifts to hype cycles and the tendency of investors and entrepreneurs to be drawn towards the latest trends, investing billions of dollars in companies that don't deliver desired results. The speaker explores the mismatch between the companies being built and the opportunities that exist. While acknowledging the value of emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and the creator economy, the speaker questions the fervor surrounding their development and the need to build companies that are not solely dependent on massive amounts of capital.
Contrary Capital's Unique Approach to Investing
The guest, Kyle Harrison from Contrary Capital, discusses the distinctive characteristics of the firm. He explains their focus on being people-centric and creating products that serve individuals throughout their journey in the startup ecosystem, even before they start a company. Contrary Capital aims to build relationships with talented people early on and provide them with resources and support. The firm also strives to be a product-led venture fund, matching their offerings with specific target markets. Their goal is to allocate resources effectively and create maximum impact under existing economic models.
Maintaining a High Bar for Talent
When it comes to maintaining a high bar for talent, it is important to gather multiple data points on individuals. This can be achieved by creating various touchpoints, such as events, content engagement, and referrals. By collecting as many data points as possible, you can gain a better understanding of a person's capabilities and potential. This approach applies not only to identifying talent but also to other areas of life, like marriage, where getting to know someone in different contexts can provide a more comprehensive understanding.
Balancing Profitability and Humanitarian Impact
Finding the balance between profitability and doing what is good for humanity can be a complex challenge. While some individuals dedicate their time and resources solely to causes they believe in, it is important to consider the influence and impact that can be achieved through profitability and growth. By increasing one's profitability and influence, it becomes possible to have a wider reach and make a positive impact on a larger scale. However, this must be done with a sense of responsibility and a commitment to ethical conduct. It is essential to maintain personal moral compass and ensure that actions align with one's values and principles.
Kyle Harrison is the General Partner at Contrary Capital, as well as a writer. We talk about hype cycles, talent vortexes, investing in people, battles between tradition and progress, building systems, writing, and much more.
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(00:46) Acceleration of FOMO and hype cycles in investing
(07:04) Being people-centric is contrarian in VC
(11:19) Most barriers have been lowered; networks & relationships are a moat
(14:44) Why don't we have more world-class, capable founders?
(19:49) Talent vortexes & curiosity
(26:55) Triangulating people’s careers & admitting you were wrong
(29:35) Doing what's profitable vs. good for humanity
(34:08) Religion vs. science/technology is a matter of altitude
(37:23) What’s always true in venture, and what won’t be in the future
(45:21) Writing vs investing
(47:05) Writing, reflecting, & changing behavior
(53:52) Crossing out every day on the calendar
(56:24) Only take opportunities that stick around
(01:01:39) Regret minimization
(01:03:18) Kyle’s final question for listeners
