Decoder with Nilay Patel Recode Decode: Kirsten Green
Jan 20, 2020
Kirsten Green, founding partner of Forerunner Ventures, shares her insights on investing in innovative consumer brands like Dollar Shave Club and Glossier. She discusses the cultural upheaval at luggage startup Away and the leadership challenges it faced. Green emphasizes the transformative impact of mobile and social media on consumer behavior, and how understanding these trends is crucial for retail success. Additionally, she explores the advantages of being a female venture capitalist and the necessary changes in the industry for better decision-making.
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Kirsten's Path to Investing
- Kirsten Green's interest in investing stemmed from a desire for variety and analytical work.
- Early experiences taught her empathy and how to understand people's motivations.
Combining Qualitative and Quantitative
- Kirsten realized she needed a unique approach to stand out in investing.
- She combined quantitative analysis with qualitative insights about consumers, leading to successful, differentiated investments.
Career Shift and Retail Transformation
- Two bank mergers displaced Kirsten's team, leading her to question her career path.
- This coincided with a shift in retail, prompting her to explore entrepreneurship and consumer-focused investing.