Rich Habits Podcast

135: How To Invest In The Next Billion Dollar Startup w/ Colin West

15 snips
Sep 15, 2025
Colin West, founder and managing partner of Ensemble VC, shares insights on identifying billion-dollar startups using a data-driven approach. He discusses the risks inherent in angel investing and the importance of strong teams. The conversation dives into innovative AI tools designed to enhance investment accuracy and touches on emerging technologies in AI, robotics, and sustainable energy. Additionally, Colin contrasts the energy landscapes of the U.S. and China, ultimately emphasizing patience and resilience as keys to entrepreneurial success.
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INSIGHT

Team Quality Trumps Everything

  • Great startup teams determine success more than ideas or timing.
  • Colin uses data to find and scale exceptional teams early to tilt odds toward winners.
INSIGHT

Venture Follows A Power Law

  • Venture returns follow a power law where a tiny number of winners produce most gains.
  • Diversification and processes to find winners are essential because most startups fail.
ANECDOTE

Arctic Crossing World Record

  • Colin and a teammate planned and executed the first unsupported human-powered Arctic Ocean crossing.
  • The 41-day expedition included storms, iceberg entrapment, and near-death moments that taught team importance.
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