Investor Spotlight: Sabrina Wu on Founder Grit, Authenticity, and Building Intelligent Applications

In this episode of Founded & Funded, host Coral Garnick Ducken interviews Madrona Investor Sabrina Wu for the latest Investor Spotlight. These two discuss Sabrina's transition from private equity to venture capital and the learnings that translate to building successful VC-backed startups, Sabrina’s focus on intelligent applications, and the characteristics she looks for in founders — grit, authenticity, and intellectual honesty. Sabrina also shares her approach to engaging with early-stage founders and her interests outside the office. This is a great episode for entrepreneurs interested in working with VCs.

 

(00:00) Introduction

(00:44) Sabrina Wu's Experience at Vector Capital

(02:50) Transition to Venture Capital

(04:26) Focus on Intelligent Applications

(05:32) Aspiring for Intelligence Newsletter

(06:56) Traits of Successful Founders

(09:00) Responding to Cold Emails

(09:53) Recommended Books and Podcasts

(10:47) Interests Outside of Work