Joe Lonsdale: American Optimist

Ep 113: Why Sam Lessin Believes AI Isn't Disruptive & Venture Capital Is Fundamentally Changing

62 snips
May 17, 2025
Sam Lessin, Co-founder and General Partner of Slow Ventures, previously VP of Product at Facebook, shares riveting insights on AI and venture capital. He argues that AI is overhyped compared to the disruptive potential of crypto. Lessin also discusses a radical shift in the venture capital landscape towards bespoke funding strategies. Additionally, he highlights his efforts to promote meritocracy and innovative hiring practices at Meritfirst, focusing on unlocking hidden talent and reforming traditional structures in corporate America.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Sam Lessin's Early Startup Journey

  • Sam Lessin started Drop.io, a file sharing company, in 2007 after Bain.
  • They raised venture capital early and sold it to Facebook, marking his entry into tech leadership.
INSIGHT

Metrics as Innovation Levers

  • Metrics can free teams if they measure the right goals and allow creativity.
  • Without clear metrics, teams become constrained and less innovative.
INSIGHT

Internet Needs Strong Identity Layer

  • The internet lacks a strong identity layer, leading to misinformation and manipulation.
  • Facebook aimed to provide trusted identities but the open internet's anonymity persists as a challenge.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app