Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship 1797: How Entrepreneurs Can Think Like Venture Capitalists by Mike Smerklo on Long-Term Value Creation
9 snips
Sep 1, 2025 Mike Smerklo, author of 'Mr. Monkey and Me' and co-founder of Next Coast Ventures, shares invaluable insights for entrepreneurs looking to adopt a venture capitalist mindset. He emphasizes the importance of risk assessment and long-term value creation for better decision-making. Smerklo discusses viewing an entrepreneurial career as a portfolio, where not every bet will pay off, but learning from each is crucial. He also highlights the need for dedication and grit, offering practical strategies to thrive in competitive markets.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
From Founder To VC Perspective
- Mike spent 15 years trying to understand how VCs make decisions while building tech companies.
- After founding a VC firm he realized the process was less mysterious and more systematic.
VCs Start With Market, Not Product
- Venture capitalists view the market first and the company second to assess opportunity.
- Entrepreneurs usually do the reverse, which creates a mismatch in fundraising conversations.
Craft A VC-Focused Story
- Be conservative and specific when sizing your market using TAM, SAM, and SOM distinctions.
- Explain competition, customer mindset, team plans, unit economics, risks, and your passion clearly to investors.
