Marcus Ryu

Marcus Ryu, co-founder of Guidewire and partner at Battery Ventures, shares his journey of building a $10B company, the challenges of startup beginnings, and the importance of precision in startup success. He discusses the power of insight, overcoming rejection, navigating legal battles, and sustaining founder relations. The conversation also explores the philosophical approach to investing, the future of vertical software, and decision-making in entrepreneurship and venture capital.

Marcus Ryu, a philosopher-turned-entrepreneur and co-founder of Guidewire, delves into how analytic philosophy shaped his approach to business. He discusses avoiding employee alienation and the dangers of extreme inequality. Ryu highlights the importance of clear communication, the balance between conviction and doubt in entrepreneurship, and the personal toll of company-building. With insights on risk and ambition shaped by his immigrant background, he reflects on the limits of AI and the societal impact of language, all while navigating the intricate dynamics of leadership.

In a captivating conversation, Marcus Ryu, co-founder of Guidewire and now a Partner at Battery Ventures, shares his journey from aspiring academic to CEO of a billion-dollar company. He discusses his philosophy of 'More Mountain', highlighting how embracing challenges fosters personal growth. Marcus candidly reflects on years of rejection, the loneliness that comes with leadership, and the transformative role of AI in venture capital. His insights on real entrepreneurship emphasize that true founders thrive by tackling hard problems head-on.