Ben Choi

Monique Woodard, co-founder of Cake Ventures, is joined by Ben Choi of Next Legacy Ventures and Michael Downing from MDSV Capital. They dive into the power of fund-of-funds, highlighting how they connect high net worth investors with emerging managers. The trio discusses the unique challenges faced by these managers, especially in the pre-seed stage, and the essential strategies for raising a first fund. They also touch on the innovative ways smaller funds can achieve high returns and the importance of institutional versus individual investors in driving success.

Ben Choi, a seasoned venture investor at Next Legacy, joins Miguel Armaza, General Partner at Gilgamesh Ventures, to explore the nuances of raising venture funds. They delve into when a GP should consider raising Fund III, with Ben sharing that Fund IV marks the threshold of becoming 'established.' The duo discusses LPs' expectations, including sourcing artifacts and repeatable strategies. They also touch on building LP communities, emphasizing tailored engagement and regular updates to foster lasting relationships. Enjoy insights on the evolving landscape of venture capital!

In a compelling discussion, Lisa Cawley, a managing director at Screendoor, highlights the importance of defining a long-term vision for venture firms to ensure success and growth. Ben Choi emphasizes the role of culture keepers in maintaining organizational values during leadership changes. Jaclyn Freeman Hester shares insights on the psychological aspects of partnerships and the need for nurturing deeper team dynamics. Together, they explore the balance between financial performance and the intangible factors that contribute to sustainable success in venture capital.

Nakul Mandan, founder of Audacious Ventures, and Ben Choi, an investment manager with over $3B in assets, share their insights on venture capital and entrepreneurship. They explore the contrasts in entrepreneurial motivations, likening struggles to Batman's journey from glamor to growth. Personal stories highlight resilience, community support during crises like COVID-19, and the importance of empathy in decision-making. The conversation wraps up with reflections on holiday spirit and gratitude towards the entrepreneurial community.

In this enlightening discussion, guests Lisa Cawley, Managing Director of Screendoor; Ben Choi, who oversees over $3B in investments; and Jaclyn Freeman Hester, Partner at Foundry, delve into the intricacies of venture capital firm-building and succession planning. They emphasize the vital role of empathy and mentorship in nurturing future leaders. The conversation also touches on the evolving responsibilities of Limited Partners in professional development and the complexities of managing leadership transitions, underscoring the importance of transparency and communication.