What if your greatest edge as a VC wasn’t data or deal flow, but your network?

Heather Hartnett, CEO and General Partner of Human Ventures, is proving that authentic human connection can drive real alpha. From startup studio to powerhouse VC platform, she’s built one of New York’s most trusted early-stage ecosystems.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

00:40 Introduction to the Driving Alpha Podcast
00:51 Meet Heather Harnett: CEO and Co-founder of Human Ventures
00:57 Heather's Career Journey and Achievements
02:21 The Founding Story of Human Ventures
02:39 The Evolution of Human Ventures
05:54 Why New York City?
07:42 The Future of Human Needs and AI
12:11 The Concept of Human Alpha
14:50 The Importance of Networks and Relationships
30:18 Finding Human Alpha in Founders
34:10 Closing Thoughts and Takeaways

In this episode,

Heather joins Zoe van den Bol to unpack how Human Ventures evolved from a startup studio into a fund franchise now three funds deep. She explains how “human alpha”, a blend of grit, network mindset, and founder-market fit, is the cornerstone of their investment strategy. You’ll hear how she leverages deep community roots in New York to unlock underpriced talent and fuel breakout success.

Heather also dives into the intersection of AI and human connection, revealing how new tools are transforming relationship management, sourcing, and founder support. With insights from her work with advisors like Esther Perel and an upcoming launch of human.ai, Heather shares why relationships (not just returns) will define the next era of venture capital.

Heather Hartnett (Human Ventures) on finding human alpha: how strategic connection is reshaping VC