Swimming with Allocators

This week on Swimming with Allocators, Earnest and Alexa welcome Vishnu Amble, Founding Director, Trustee, and Investment Committee Member at GreenBear Group. Vishnu shares insights from his global investment career, discussing his transition from traditional finance to leading a mission-driven family office. The conversation explores the importance of building strong networks, lessons from backing both startups and fund managers, and the critical role of alignment and long-term relationships between LPs and GPs. Vishnu also highlights the impact of technology and outsourcing on investment efficiency, offers perspectives on energy and infrastructure trends, and emphasizes the need for persistence, clear objectives, and risk management. Key takeaways include the value of genuine partnerships, adapting to market cycles, the continued opportunities within the US innovation landscape, and more. Highlights from this week’s conversation include:Vishnu’s Career Journey: From Engineering to Finance (1:13)Global Perspective & LP Value Proposition (4:14)Manager Selection & Partnership Approach (6:31)LP Community & Tech Solutions (10:37)Diligence & Risk Tolerance Evolution (12:18)What Vishnu Looks for in Fund Managers (14:00)Fundraising Challenges in Thematic Funds (16:19)LP Alignment & Fund Composition (20:00)Building Relationships in the Age of AI (23:13)Tech, Costs, and Human Capital (24:18)Opportunities for Early Stage Investors (27:18)Historical Lessons & U.S. Market Endurance (28:55)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (31:06)GreenBear Group LLC is a single-family investment office and mission-driven philanthropic organization focused on fund partnerships, direct investments, and GP seeding. With over 20 years of global experience and deep conviction in values-aligned capital, GreenBear supports exceptional fund managers and founders advancing economic access, sustainability, and innovation.Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a division of First Citizens Bank, is the bank of the world’s most innovative companies and investors. SVB provides commercial and private banking to individuals and companies in the technology, life science and healthcare, private equity, venture capital and premium wine industries. SVB operates in centers of innovation throughout the United States, serving the unique needs of its dynamic clients with deep sector expertise, insights and connections. SVB’s parent company, First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCNCA), is a top 20 U.S. financial institution with more than $200 billion in assets. First Citizens Bank, Member FDIC. Learn more at svb.com.Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.

This week on Swimming with Allocators, Earnest and Alexa welcome Jason Howard, Founder and Managing Partner of New Catalyst Strategic Partners. Jason shares his journey from finance and entertainment to launching a firm focused on GP seeding and supporting emerging managers in private markets. The discussion covers New Catalyst’s innovative approach to providing seed capital, operational support, and strategic partnerships, as well as insights into co-investment, secondary markets, and the challenges facing new fund managers. Key takeaways include the importance of alignment, scalable capital, and cross-industry lessons in building sustainable investment firms, along with practical advice for both GPs and LPs navigating today’s complex private market landscape. Don’t miss this great conversation.Highlights from this week’s conversation include:Jason’s Background and Career Journey (1:03)Lessons from Entertainment to Private Markets (4:27)Genesis and Mission of New Catalyst (8:30)New Catalyst’s Investment Approach (12:07)Market Gaps Addressed by New Catalysts (14:20)What is GP Seeding? (17:40)Manager Archetypes and Investment Focus (20:45)Trends in Fund Strategy Expansion (24:06)Value of First Partnership in GP Seeding (28:48)Strategic Partnership Support for Managers (31:46)Benefits of Seeding for LPs (33:37)Secondaries and GP Stakes (36:38)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (40:32)New Catalyst Strategic Partners is an independent alternative investment firm founded by industry veteran Jason Howard. Launched with significant capital from Apollo to support its growth, New Catalyst seeks to acquire economic interests and minority ownership in Next Generation private markets firms, providing them with the flexible, strategic capital and value creation resources they need to grow and succeed. To learn more, please visit www.newcatalystsp.com.Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a division of First Citizens Bank, is the bank of the world’s most innovative companies and investors. SVB provides commercial and private banking to individuals and companies in the technology, life science and healthcare, private equity, venture capital and premium wine industries. SVB operates in centers of innovation throughout the United States, serving the unique needs of its dynamic clients with deep sector expertise, insights and connections. SVB’s parent company, First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCNCA), is a top 20 U.S. financial institution with more than $200 billion in assets. First Citizens Bank, Member FDIC. Learn more at svb.com.Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.

Diego De Colombres, founding general partner of Dissent Capital, shares his unique insights into the world of crypto venture capital. He discusses the shift from traditional equity research to focusing on specialized crypto fund-of-funds. Diego emphasizes the strategy of concentration over diversification to navigate the volatile market and the importance of supporting emerging managers. He also touches on trends like stablecoins and the intersection of crypto and AI, providing valuable advice on disciplined selection and long-term investment perspectives.

Brian O'Neil, former Chief Investment Officer of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, shares his wealth of experience in venture capital. He highlights the current challenges in the sector, including excessive funding and the shift towards profitability. Brian emphasizes the importance of diversification and patience in investing while navigating the complexities of private equity. He also discusses the potential of AI and personalized medicine, and the critical need for relationship-building among emerging managers. His insights offer a valuable perspective for allocators looking to succeed in this evolving landscape.

Highlights from this week’s conversation include:Wendy’s Origin Story and Entry into Allocator World (1:17)Early Lessons as an Allocator (3:59)Gravitating Toward Private Assets (6:39)Founding Ivy Invest: The Problem and Vision (8:06)Trends and Tailwinds in Asset Management (11:01)Challenges Bridging Institutions and Individuals (13:55)Bridging Institutional and Individual Experiences (16:47)Is Retail Capital a New Institutional Staple? (19:58)Why Early-Stage Venture “Math Still Works” (24:00)Institutional Governance and Fund Size Trends (27:14)Advice for Emerging Managers Approaching Institutions (29:45)Where Alpha Will Come From in Venture (33:13)Intangibles and Differentiation in Early-Stage Managers (36:26)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (39:56)Ivy Invest brings institutional-quality portfolios to individual investors using an endowment-style investment framework. Co-founded by Wendy Li, Ivy invests across equities, income, and diversifiers—partnering with experienced asset managers to deliver performance, discipline, and access. Learn more at www.ivyinvest.com.Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a division of First Citizens Bank, is the bank of the world’s most innovative companies and investors. SVB provides commercial and private banking to individuals and companies in the technology, life science and healthcare, private equity, venture capital and premium wine industries. SVB operates in centers of innovation throughout the United States, serving the unique needs of its dynamic clients with deep sector expertise, insights and connections. SVB’s parent company, First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCNCA), is a top 20 U.S. financial institution with more than $200 billion in assets. First Citizens Bank, Member FDIC. Learn more at svb.com.Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.

This week on Swimming with Allocators, Earnest and Alexa welcome Jon Wolkin, Managing Director of Deloitte Ventures. Jon shares his journey from investment banking to corporate venture, highlighting Deloitte's $150 million fund strategy that balances direct and fund investments across key technology verticals like AI, future of work, and health tech. The discussion reveals critical insights into corporate venture capital, emphasizing the importance of having a clear "North Star" strategy, understanding long-term value creation, and navigating the complex ecosystem of innovation. Key takeaways include the need for corporations to move quickly, provide strategic value beyond capital, and remain adaptable in a rapidly changing technological landscape. Jon also provides unique perspectives on the Canadian venture ecosystem, noting its potential in emerging technologies and the relatively low corporate venture participation compared to the US market. Don’t miss this in-depth discussion.Highlights from this week’s conversation include:Jon’s Career Journey (1:18)Transition to Corporate Venture and Deloitte (3:19)Strategic vs. Financial Objectives in CVC (4:39)Long-term vs. Short-term Goals in Venture (7:15)Challenges of Launching a Venture Arm in a Partnership (9:11)Direct vs. Fund Investing Strategy (11:53)Fund Selection and Ecosystem Engagement (13:20)Alignment of Direct and Fund Investment Verticals (17:29)Corporate VC Activity in Downturns (22:56)Misconceptions About Corporate Venture Groups (25:21)Advice for Emerging Managers Working with Corporates (27:59)Key Learnings and Reflections at Deloitte Ventures (30:11)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (32:20)Deloitte Ventures Canada is a $150M corporate venture capital fund investing in Series A and B companies across fintech, cyber, climate, data/AI, and work tech. With a dual mandate of direct investments and fund investments, Deloitte Ventures is strategically positioned to support innovation while delivering financial and strategic value. Learn more at www.deloitte.ca.Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a division of First Citizens Bank, is the bank of the world’s most innovative companies and investors. SVB provides commercial and private banking to individuals and companies in the technology, life science and healthcare, private equity, venture capital and premium wine industries. SVB operates in centers of innovation throughout the United States, serving the unique needs of its dynamic clients with deep sector expertise, insights and connections. SVB’s parent company, First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCNCA), is a top 20 U.S. financial institution with more than $200 billion in assets. First Citizens Bank, Member FDIC. Learn more at svb.com.Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.

This week on Swimming with Allocators, Earnest and Alexa welcome Quincy Brown, Managing Director at FEG Investment Advisors. With 29 years of experience, Quincy discusses how his firm serves mission-driven organizations by integrating responsive investing strategies, focusing on diverse and emerging managers, and balancing financial performance with social impact. Key topics include the evolution of ESG investing, technology's role in creating new investment opportunities, and the importance of understanding client missions. Quincy also emphasizes that organizations can achieve both financial returns and social objectives by taking a long-term, strategic approach to investing, particularly in venture and private equity sectors. The conversation provides a nuanced look at how investment consultants are navigating changing landscapes of mission-aligned investing. Don’t miss it! Highlights from this week’s conversation include:Quincy’s Career Path (1:09)FEG’s History and Client Base (4:44)Building Trust and Client Relationships (7:00)Values-Aligned and Responsive Investing (9:17)Shift Toward Venture and Private Equity (12:26)Identifying Diverse and Emerging Managers (14:36)Diversity Criteria and Thresholds (17:01)Advice for Emerging Managers (18:03)Role of the Research Team (19:10)Fund Performance Trends (21:55)Mission Alignment Across Asset Classes (24:33)Lessons from ESG and DEI Trends (28:44)Exciting Trends in Venture and Private Markets (30:16)Advice for Allocators on Values-Aligned Investing (35:14)Connecting with Quincy and FEG and Parting Thoughts (36:34)FEG Investment Advisors is a Cincinnati-based investment consulting and OCIO firm serving nonprofits, endowments, and foundations nationwide. With a legacy of research-driven diligence, values-based investing, and a deep commitment to diverse and emerging managers, FEG is a leader in aligning capital with mission. Learn more at www.feg.com.Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a division of First Citizens Bank, is the bank of the world’s most innovative companies and investors. SVB provides commercial and private banking to individuals and companies in the technology, life science and healthcare, private equity, venture capital and premium wine industries. SVB operates in centers of innovation throughout the United States, serving the unique needs of its dynamic clients with deep sector expertise, insights and connections. SVB’s parent company, First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCNCA), is a top 20 U.S. financial institution with more than $200 billion in assets. First Citizens Bank, Member FDIC. Learn more at svb.com.Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.

This week on Swimming with Allocators, Earnest and Alexa welcome Farhan Lalji and Dario de Wet, Co-Founders of LTV Capital. During the conversation, Farhan and Dario discuss their unique approach to investing in emerging fund managers. They share insights into evaluating new venture capital funds, emphasizing the importance of understanding a manager's "why," network strength, and hustle factor. The conversation also explores the challenges of venture capital scaling, the potential of managers with atypical backgrounds, and the evolving landscape of startup exits. Key takeaways include the value of investing in smaller, innovative funds, the need for differentiation in a competitive market, and the potential of legacy industries for venture investment. Also, don’t miss our insider segment as Idan Netser and Jason Kropp from Sidley Law Firm discuss critical regulatory considerations for venture capital and startups, focusing on tax implications of carried interest, Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) benefits, and evolving FDA regulations in the medical and biotech sectors.Highlights from this week’s conversation include:Dario’s Career Journey (0:58)Farhan’s Background and Anthem Group Experience (1:43)Emergence of LTV Capital’s Thesis (3:36)Influential Experiences Shaping VC Perspective (5:27)Should Venture Capital Scale? (8:08)Why Focus on Emerging Managers? (13:10)Intangibles in Fund Managers (18:26)Intentionality in Fund Construction (21:24)Insider Segment: Regulatory and Tax Updates (23:02)Hands-On LP Support for Emerging Managers (27:21)First Close vs. Last Close LPs (30:37)Why LPs Choose LTV Capital (33:53)Venture Beta vs. Alpha and Fund of Funds Debate (36:18)Venture Exits and Liquidity Outlook (40:43)Parting Advice for GPs and LPs and Final Thoughts (44:10)LTV Capital is dedicated to investing in top-tier emerging managers globally, aiming to empower the next generation of venture capital leaders. By providing support and resources, LTV Capital fosters innovation and growth within the venture capital ecosystem.LTV Capital: Empowering Emerging Managers | Uniting the Fund EcosystemSidley Austin LLP is a premier global law firm with a dedicated Venture Funds practice, advising top venture capital firms, institutional investors, and private equity sponsors on fund formation, investment structuring, and regulatory compliance. With deep expertise across private markets, Sidley provides strategic legal counsel to help funds scale effectively. Learn more at sidley.com.Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.

This week on Swimming with Allocators, Earnest and Alexa sit down with Clare McLaughlin, Partner at TLI Bedrock. Clare shares her unexpected path from art history and professional harpist to VC, along with her distinctive lens on early-stage investing in sectors like material science, defense, and deep tech. She highlights the importance of founder execution, financial storytelling, and aligning investments with personal values. The episode also explores the evolving role of family offices and the need for transparency and long-term thinking. Also, don’t miss our insider segment with Jason Kropp of Sidley on tax optimization strategies and smart structuring for global VC investments.Highlights from this week’s conversation include:Clare’s Unconventional Path to VC (1:02)Lessons from Arts and Nonprofit Roles (4:22)TLI Bedrock’s Approach and Family Office Strategy (8:34)Building Investment Strategy and Structure (10:18)Transitioning to Offense in Investing (12:02)Fund Manager Relationships and Communication (16:11)What Works (and Doesn’t) in Fund Manager Pitches (21:23)Grit and Motivation in Venture Careers (26:19)Insider Segment: Tax Optimization for LPs and GPs (27:11)Current Excitement and Trends in Tech & Energy (35:38)Intentionality and Values in Investing (37:39)Balancing Efficiency, Humanity, and Technological Change (39:13)Simple, Impactful Innovations (43:42)The Myth of Tier One Co-Investment (48:07)Favorite Success Stories and Founder Qualities (49:22)Advice for New Family Office Professionals and Parting Thoughts (52:38)TLI Bedrock is a multi-strategy fund that invests across sectors and industries. The firm seeks high returns by backing innovative projects, responsible companies that consider customer, employee, and community needs, and sustainable approaches to commerce. Guided by the principles of trust, loyalty, and integrity, TLI Bedrock takes a holistic approach to investment. Learn more at www.tlibedrock.com.Sidley Austin LLP is a premier global law firm with a dedicated Venture Funds practice, advising top venture capital firms, institutional investors, and private equity sponsors on fund formation, investment structuring, and regulatory compliance. With deep expertise across private markets, Sidley provides strategic legal counsel to help funds scale effectively. Learn more at sidley.com.Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.

This week on Swimming with Allocators, Earnest and Alexa welcome Brian Brackeen, Managing Partner at Lightship Capital. Brian shares his unconventional journey from tech founder to venture capital allocator. He discusses his vision for democratizing venture capital by investing in overlooked regions like the Midwest and challenging traditional investment biases, and emphasizes the importance of founder-focused investing, leveraging AI in fund management, and creating opportunities beyond coastal tech hubs. Key insights include his critique of performative DEI efforts, the potential transformative impact of AI across industries, and his belief that smaller funds in underserved regions can generate significant returns. Also, don’t miss our insider segment as Idan Netser from Sidley law firm discusses how legal firms can serve as valuable connectors and advisors in the venture capital ecosystem, helping GPs and LPs network, make introductions, facilitate deal opportunities, and provide strategic guidance beyond traditional legal services.Highlights from this week’s conversation include:Brian's Journey into Tech and VC (0:40)Motivation for Starting Anchor Fund (6:27)Geographic and Diversity Challenges in VC (8:13)Investment Strategy and Diligence Process (9:38)Fund Size, Target LPs, and Support Services (11:50)Decision-Making and Fund Selection (13:17)Insider Segment: Benefits of Legal Firms for VCs (15:57)Trends in VC and LP/GP Terms (20:18)How LPs Should Approach Emerging Managers (23:51)Traits and Diligence for Fund Managers (25:56)AI in Fund Diligence and Operations (29:36)AI’s Future Economic Impact (32:52)Transferable Skills and Workforce Evolution (39:58)Anchor Fund’s Long-Term Vision (44:54)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (45:50)Lightship Capital Anchor Fund is a fund-of-funds strategy dedicated to driving economic growth by investing in small businesses through venture funds and direct investments. With a focus on diversity and measurable outcomes, Anchor Fund supports fund managers across the Americas, Africa, and Europe, ensuring long-term financial success and community impact. Learn more at www.lightship.capital/anchorfund.Sidley Austin LLP is a premier global law firm with a dedicated Venture Funds practice, advising top venture capital firms, institutional investors, and private equity sponsors on fund formation, investment structuring, and regulatory compliance. With deep expertise across private markets, Sidley provides strategic legal counsel to help funds scale effectively. Learn more at sidley.com.Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.